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OVERALL INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (OIEE)

I. INTRODUCTION

1. Since 1993, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has adopted the Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) strategy in its effort to focus its development assistance to the critical mass of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) upon completion of its land distribution and leasehold operation activities in CARPable areas. Through its Foreign Assisted Projects Office (FAPsO), the DAR was able to generate technical support and financial assistance from international funding organizations and since then has a continuing program in developing ARCs nationwide. To date, several foreign assisted projects are operating across the country’s three (3) island groups of , and . One of these is the Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP) with assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

2. The ARCP II is a follow-on project of the first ARCP which commenced in 1998 and is due for completion by December 2007. Based on the request of the Government of the (GOP), the ADB approved a Project Preparatory Technical Assistance (PPTA) to prepare an investment package for ARCP II. In order to carry out the PPTA, a multi- disciplinary team of local and international specialists1 from the SEAMEO Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) was engaged in 2005 to undertake the preparatory works for the proposed project.

3. The Philippine poverty situation shows that around three quarters of the rural poor reside in the large part of the Visayas and Mindanao regions with some in the southern part of Luzon. Given this and considering the poverty reduction concerns of the government and the strategic focus of ADB, the ARCP II gave priority assistance to the southern half of the Philippines. The identification of the project scope followed a process that clearly prioritized areas which have the highest poverty incidence in the country. The table below shows the provinces within the highest 50% poverty ranking in the country as of 2003.

Table 1: Philippine Poverty Ranking (highest 50%) Percentage Eligible Percentage Eligible Poverty Rank Poverty Rank of Poor For of Poor for by province by province household ARCPII households ARCPII Philippines 16.8 - 1 52.3 - 21 29 Eligible 2 44.8 Eligible 22 28.1 - 3 39.3 - 23 Occidental 27.9 Eligible 4 38.7 - 24 Occidental 27.6 - 5 del Sur 38.7 - 25 Del Norte 27 - 6 Norte 37.6 Eligible 26 26.4 - 7 del Norte 36.2 - 27 25.8 - 8 36.1 Eligible 28 25.6 - 9 Saranggani 35.5 - 29 Western 25.3 Eligible 10 35.4 - 30 del Norte 25.2 - 11 Mt. Province 35 - 31 24.7 Eligible 12 Northern Samar 34.8 Eligible 32 24.4 - 13 34.6 Eligible 33 23.5 - 14 34.1 Eligible 34 23.5 Eligible 15 33 - 35 23.3 Eligible 16 32.8 - 36 23 -

1 The PPTA Team included: Herman Ongkiko, Rural Development Specialist and Team Leader; Dorothy Lucks, Agrarian Reform Specialist; Clovis Ike J. Payumo, Rural Infrastructure Specialist; Lydia Martinez, Agriculture and Enterprise Specialist; Liberty Guinto, Financial Specialist; Raike R. Quiñones, Rural Finance Specialist; Virgilio R. de los Reyes, Land Tenure Improvement Specialist; and Jo Rowena D. Garcia, Environmental Specialist. 2

Percentage Eligible Percentage Eligible Poverty Rank Poverty Rank of Poor For of Poor for by province by province household ARCPII households ARCPII 17 31.1 - 37 Tawi-tawi 23 - 18 North 30.2 - 38 Zamboanga Sur 22.6 Eligible 19 Oriental 29.7 - Zamboanga Sibugay2 N/a Eligible 20 29.1 Eligible Source: FIES/NSO, 2003

4. From the table above, the spread of the poorest provinces across the country affirms the focus of poverty alleviation efforts of most development organizations, and particularly ADB in the southern half of the country. Of the 38 poorest provinces, 35 are in Mindanao, Visayas, and southern Luzon. The reasons for this are many but do relate to physical distance from the capital city, isolation as islands, a level of neglect from government programs over the years, and a consequent lower level of economic and social capital within those areas.

5. On the basis of ARCP II selection criteria which will consider only provinces with at least four (4) ARCs that have not received infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs, about fifteen (15) provinces are eligible for assistance. This is to ensure equitable distribution of support and benefits to the huge number of ARCs awaiting for support from DAR. From these fifteen (15) provinces, a second level of selection criteria was developed to identify the ARCs that would be eligible for ARCP II assistance. This set of criteria included the factors on ARCs that have not availed of infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs and those that demonstrate potential for income generation and a level of readiness for economic activities. This selection resulted to about 132 ARCs covering about 631 barangays spread over 117 and cities in the 15 provinces. It is estimated that direct and indirect benefits from the Project will yield positive results in improved quality of life through improved and increased access to services to about 200,000 rural community members.

6. A loan fact finding mission was fielded by ADB between 12 April and 18 May 2007, in order to reach understandings and agreements with the government regarding the objectives, impacts, outcomes and outputs of the project. The mission undertook detailed discussions with the DAR at all levels and the oversight agencies. The series of consultations and in the advent of a possible co-financing by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) through the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) for ARCP II, the DAR management and ADB agreed to expand the coverage of ARCP II to the three (3) island provinces of ARMM namely , Sulu and Tawi Tawi.

7. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is a special region created following the Final Peace Agreement of September 02, 1996 on the implementation of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with the participation of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) Ministerial Committee. Under Republic Act (R.A.) 6734 otherwise known as the Organic Act for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, ARMM was initially composed of the four (4) provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi Tawi. With the promulgation of R.A. 9054, an act strengthening and expanding the Organic Act for the ARMM, the Region is now covering the province of Basilan and City as well (see Figure 1 below). By virtue of Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act (MMA) 201 of October 24, 2005, the fifth Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA) created the Province of Shariff Kabunsuan separating it from the mother province of Maguindanao hence, ARMM is now composed of the six (6) provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Shariff Kabunsuan, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi and the lone City of Marawi.

2 Zamboanga Sibuguy is a new province formed in 2003, annexed from . The poverty level is expected to be in line with Zamboanga Del Sur.

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Figure 1: Map of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)

8. The economy of ARMM is predominantly based on the agricultural and fishery sector. The productivity from these sectors however was hampered by military conflicts, cultural traditions and ethnic differences. As a manifestation of the national government support to the development of ARCs in the ARMM, the Project would now cover all the six (6) provinces with about five (5) ARCs per province for a total of thirty (30) ARCs regionwide.

9. Given these developments, ARCP II would now be assisting a total of 152 ARCs covering 731 barangays in 137 municipalities of 19 provinces in six (6) regions. Expected beneficiaries would likewise increase to more than 215,000 rural community members with the inclusion of the 3 island provinces of ARMM.

10. The development of an investment package for ARCP II was done in a highly participatory manner. DAR senior, regional and provincial staff members, ADB staff members and oversight government agencies were regularly consulted in the development of the selection criteria for the project sites, in the preparation of the studies relevant to the investment project and in formulation of key design aspects. The target agrarian reform communities and other key stakeholders were involved in various ways in the preparation process including workshops, feasibility and pre-feasibility study preparation, focus groups and field consultations. Reports, data, and other studies from previous and on-going projects such as the ARCP I, other DAR externally funded projects and other similar rural development projects were reviewed during the project preparation.

11. The DAR ARMM officials were also consulted during the fact finding mission with the inclusion of the additional 3 provinces and two (2) eligible municipalities were visited by the mission to discuss and reconfirm the concerns of the ARCs with the LGUs in their respective municipal jurisdiction. The visit was participated in by the LGU officials and technical staff, the MARO and representatives from DAR ARMM regional office.

12. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is carried out as part of the study to assure that ARCP II will be environmentally feasible. The conduct of this IEE is basically to determine whether further study like EIA is necessary and required under the ADB and GOP environmental policies. It covers the general discussions on i) information about the general

4 environmental settings of the project area as baseline data; ii) information on potential impacts of the project and the characteristics of the impacts, magnitude, distribution, who will be the affected group and their duration; iii) information on potential mitigation measures to minimize the impact including mitigation cost; iv) assessment of the best alternative sub- projects with most benefits at least costs in terms of financial, social and environmental aspects; and v) basic information for formulating environmental management and monitoring plan.

13. The Environmental Assessment was conducted through field visits to sample sites, consultations and focus group discussions (FGD) with the various project stakeholders like the Units (LGUs) at the provincial, municipal and levels, the communities within the proposed project sites and relevant line agencies of the national government like the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Department of Agriculture (DA), National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and National Irrigation Administration (NIA), among others. Secondary data on the socio-economic profiles of the sample sites as well as the rest of the eligible project sites were also generated as main sourcebook for the relevant information necessary in assessing the current environmental characteristics of barangays, municipalities and the provinces where ARCP II is expected to operate.

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

14. ARCP II will support the efforts of DAR to address the key constraints in the development of the ARCs and the improvement in the living conditions of the rural households. The long term impact of the Project is to reduce poverty and contribute to improved sustainability of livelihoods of poor and vulnerable communities in selected ARCs and ARC clusters. In order to achieve these impacts, the Project is expected to have the following outcomes: (i) improved access to livelihood assets by the rural poor including the landless farm workers, (ii) development of sustainable livelihoods and long lasting improvements in the well being of poor and marginalized groups in the target communities. These outcomes will be pursued through the design and implementation of an integrated and complementary package of development investments involving (a) community driven development (b) support for social capital formation, (c) agri-enterprise support programs including technical support for developing access to rural finance (d) land survey and titling, (e) rural infrastructure, (f) capacity building programs and (g) mainstreaming project management in a sustainable manner.

15. The project package will advocate a demand driven approach, improved local governance and ownership by key stakeholders underscoring the active participation and direct involvement of the rural household in the development process. To achieve these outcomes and based on the assessment of the needs and demands in the ARCs, the Project will support the following outputs: 1) Community Driven Development (CDD), as a key component to build community capacity for self reliant development, support for social capital formation, strengthening of participatory planning processes, mobilization and organization of communities, improved governance and laying of a strong foundation for sustainability for project investments and long term improvements in livelihoods ; 2) Agriculture and Enterprise Development (AED), to facilitate improvements in agriculture and enterprise development, and support promotion of access to rural financial services including community based micro finance development, in order to increase productivity and profitability of income-generating activities; 3) Rural Infrastructure (RI), designed to provide a fillip to improved production and productivity and cropping intensification, through the improved access to markets, cost-effectiveness and access to services; and 4) Project Implementation Management (PIM) to support implementation, mainstreaming, good governance and accountability.

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16. Community Driven Development. This output is to mobilize, organize, and strengthen communities and local institutions throughout the project, for basing demand for project interventions and their implementation and usage, on the felt needs and capacity of the community. These are to be expressed through a process of prioritization and commitments to sustained and informed participation by the community and community contributions for sustainability. The output will consist of sub-components on: (i) orientation and social capital formation; (ii) participatory ARC planning; (iii) organizational development and iv) support to good governance at local level.

17. Agriculture and Enterprise Development. The purpose of this output is to provide strategic support services to participating ARCs in order to help generate sustainable increases in agricultural production, increase economic activities in the ARCs and pilot ARC connectivity strategies. Agricultural development and the development of ARCs can be viewed as the progression from traditional, subsistence farming to increased production for improved food security. The implementation of the agriculture and enterprise development activities will address the need for crop diversification, improved cropping intensity and production and marketing related concerns. This output is based on CARP Impact Assessment findings on the significant benefits to ARBs of promoting adoption of improved agricultural practices and the need for increased market focused development initiatives. The agriculture and enterprise development output will consist of four sub-components on (i) Technical Support, (ii) Enterprise Development, (iii) Land Tenure Improvement and (iv) Rural Finance including Community Based Micro-Finance.

18. Rural Infrastructure. The provision of rural infrastructure will be a major investment component to spur socio-economic activities and to contribute to improving the productivity and income of the rural households in the ARCs. Complementary to the rest of the Project components, the Rural Infrastructure output will aim to (i) reduce transport time and cost of farm inputs; (ii) enhance ability to grow and market crops; (iii) increase production diversity and growing options; (iv) increase cropping intensity and improve yields and productivity; (v) reduce post-harvest losses and transport damage improving quality of products; (vi) reduce incidence of water borne diseases; (vii) generate time savings for better productive use; (viii) generate savings in medical expenses; (ix) improve community hygiene and public health; and (x) reduce the vulnerability of rural poor to various types of crisis situations by improving access for emergency services.

19. Project Implementation Management. This output will ensure the effective integration and complementation of the interrelated development investment packages by providing resources to support the management structure which will be fully mainstreamed at national, regional, provincial and local levels. All project implementation and management structures will be established within existing government institutions in keeping with Government policy aimed at harmonization. It will include technical support services in project management, CDD, agricultural enterprise development, microfinance and rural credit promotion, infrastructure development, monitoring and evaluation, extension training, gender and development, Indigenous Peoples’ development, environment management, among others.

20. As a result of the selection criteria developed by the PPTA of 2005 and agreed upon by the DAR and ADB during the Fact Finding Mission, ARCP II will operate in 19 provinces within the southern half of the Philippines composed of five (5) provinces at the southern part of Luzon, five (5) in the eastern and western part of Visayas and nine (9) in western, central and southern Mindanao including all the six (6) provinces of ARMM (see Figure 2). There will be about 152 ARCs that will be covered by the Project in these 19 provinces.

Figure 2: ARCP II Operational Map

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21. While the other Project outputs will have practically no environmental consequences, the rural infrastructure component would require initial examination to determine the extent of impact to the immediate surroundings and environment. Under ARCP II, specific outputs of the component will include i) Rural Access Infrastructure to include rehabilitation and selective construction of highly critical Barangay or Farm to Market

7 roads and its appurtenant structures, single lane concrete bridges and low-level crossings, access trails, footpaths and hanging foot bridges in upland areas; ii) Small Scale Irrigation to include construction and rehabilitation of small flow communal irrigation schemes (CIP and CIS), Small Water Impounding Projects (SWIP), Small Farm Reservoirs (SFR), Shallow Tube Wells (STW) and drip irrigation schemes for high value crops; iii) Post-Production Facilities to include provision of warehouses and solar driers; and iv) Social Infrastructure Facilities to include Potable Water Supply (PWS - levels I and II), Multi-Purpose Buildings (MPB) in support to community organization strengthening, Tribal Centers for the IP communities and rainwater collectors where critically needed. To some extent, the project would also support environmentally critical and small scale flood protection works posing immediate danger to lives and properties, small fish landing facilities and solar drier on stilts for coastal ARCs with major marine production activities, Barangay Health Stations and School Building Classrooms where existing demand is apparent and Day Care Centers where women beneficiaries are engaged in entrepreneurial activities.

22. The discussions conducted during the ARMM field visit indicated that there is no significant difference between the needs of ARMM and non - ARMM ARCs as these are all agriculture based and usually located in interior barangays. The two (2) LGUs that were consulted provided an indication on the requirements of the ARCs to improve their current socio - economic condition. The need for an all weather access infrastructure like farm to market roads and connecting bridges still ranks first in their assessment followed by the need for post harvest facilities which include solar driers and warehouses. In terms of social services facilities, provision of a reliable and safe drinking water is still the most pressing concern of the ARMM ARC communities.

23. One of the needs that may be different from other ARCs nationwide is on infrastructure support to marine based production like fishing and seaweeds. These requirements are especially true in the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi – Tawi. The ARBs in the coastal ARCs in these provinces are engaged in fishing and seaweed production and identify fish landing facilities and solar dries on stilt as their priority needs.

24. Individual rural access infrastructure sub-project would involve an average of 2 kilometers of farm to market roads and about 30 linear meters of single lane concrete bridges. Small scale irrigation schemes would commonly cover 50 to 100 hectares per sub- project while building facilities would have a floor area ranging from 60 square meters for multi-purpose buildings to 100 square meters for warehouses. Location of these farm to market roads for rehabilitation and/or selective construction would be mostly within the agricultural production areas of ARCs as these are the “missing links” to the nearest all weather access roads to market sites while building facilities would also be appropriately sited in areas accessible to most of the farmer beneficiaries. Small fish landing facilities and seaweed solar driers on stilts will commonly be located along beach lines where the fishing community resides.

25. The basic geometric and design specifications of these types of rural infrastructures under ARCP II will be as follows:

A. Access Infrastructure

Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications • Barangay and Farm to Market Road, Trails and Foot Paths

o Standard gravel road (for traffic ¾ 4.00 m. wide carriageway with 1.00 m. shoulder and volume of 20 vehicles per day and trapezoidal drainage ditch on both sides; 15 cms. aggregate above) base course of Item 201 on top of 10 cms. sub-base course of Item 200

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Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications o Tire Tracks (for road gradients of ¾ 2 – 60 cms wide x 20 cms thick 3,000 psi concrete tire tracks 12% and above) on 10 cms gravel base course with grass “creeps” along center gap of 0.90 meter

o Sledge Trail (for tricycles, ¾ 2.50 m wide carriageway with 0.50 m shoulder and triangular motorcycles, animal drawn sledge drainage ditch on both sides; 15 cms aggregate base course of and occasional 4-wheeled traffic) Item 201 with no sub-base course and carriageway shall be overlaid with well compacted sand and gravel surface course (armouring) of Item 300; provisions for passing bays of 6.00 m road width at every 250 meters interval

o Trails and foot paths ¾ 1.00 m wide carriageway with triangular drainage ditch on both sides; 10 cms aggregate base course of Item 201 with no sub- base course; 0.60 m x .10 m un-reinforced concrete block pavement for steep slopes of 12% and above

• Single Lane Bridge, Low Level Crossings and Hanging Foot Bridges

o RCDG type (for traffic volume of 20 ¾ 4.00 m. wide of 3,000 psi concrete pavement on Reinforced vehicles per day or more up to 30.00 Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) meters span)

o Bailey type (for traffic volume of less ¾ 4.00 m. wide with timber plank running boards on hardwood than 20 vehicles per day or bridges joists and bailey panels on Reinforced Concrete Piers of more than 30.00 meters span) ¾ Hardwood timbers used for construction works shall have appropriate permits from DENR

o Rock Causeway and Spillways ¾ 4.00 m wide concrete paved carriageway on piled boulders (where appropriate in lieu of bridge) with provision of reinforced concrete pipe culverts (RCPC) with sufficient number and diameter; 15 cms concrete upstream and downstream aprons with energy dissipators and cut-of walls of sufficient design depths with temperature bars

o Hanging foot bridges ¾ 1.20 m wide walkway with 50 mm x 150 mm floor planks or steel mats on 25 mm diameter cable suspensions and concrete abutments

• Small Fish Landing Facilities

o Timber Ports ¾ 2.00 m wide walkway with 50 mm x 150 mm floor planks on hardwood sub-structural members; 4.00 m x 7.00 m pier head on 200 mm x 200 mm reinforced concrete pile columns ¾ Hardwood timbers taken from sites used for construction works shall have appropriate clearance from DENR

o Jetty ¾ 2.00 m wide concrete paved walkway on piled boulders of side slope (SS) of 1:2 and minimum free board of 0.50 m

B. Social Facilities

Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications

• Potable Water Supply

o Rainwater Collector (to be packaged ¾ Elevated stainless tanks or concrete reservoir with 1.50 m with building facilities when tower and made of 3,000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with necessary and if without source of water proofing compound water supply) ¾ Reservoir shall have a capacity of 7,500 liters with dimensions of 3.00 m x 3.00 m square x 1.20 m high

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Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications

o Level I artesian well and jetmatic ¾ Located at least 25 m. from water source of pollution pumps ¾ Farthest user is not more than 250 m. from point source ¾ Designed to deliver at least 20 liters per capita per day (lpcd) ¾ To serve an average of 15 households per unit ¾ Adopt 100 mm diameter of steel casing with 50 mm diameter of G.I. intake pipe with suction rod, 100 mm diameter of low carbon steel screen and 10 mm diameter gravel packing materials; all G.I. pipes shall have a minimum strength equivalent to schedule 40

o Level II Spring Development ¾ Farthest house shall not be more than 25 m. from the nearest (note: design provisions for communal faucet Level III to be incorporated if ¾ Designed to deliver at least 60 liters per capita per day LGU or community decides ¾ Communal faucet to serve an average of 4 to 6 households to upgrade in the future) ¾ Spring box shall be made of 3000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with water proofing compound ¾ Ground distribution reservoir shall be located on high ground and made of 3000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with water proofing compound ¾ Main pipeline shall be a combination of 50 – 100 mm diameter GI, UPVC and polyethylene (P.E.) pipe of sufficient strength ¾ Intermediate distribution lines shall be of ½” – ¾” diameter of P.E. pipe ¾ All pipes shall be rated for use of water at 23 oC and at a minimum working pressure of 1.10 Mpa or as dictated by actual hydrostatic head ¾ All pipes shall be embedded at a minimum of 50 cms. below natural ground ¾ Communal faucets shall be of heavy duty brass type provided with concrete apron and tub of appropriate size and design

• Building Facilities

o School Buildings, Barangay Health ¾ All floors shall be 10 cms. thick of 3000 psi concrete provided Stations and Day Care Centers with temperature bars of 10 mm diameter spaced at 40 cms. on center both ways ¾ All walls shall be of 10 cms. thk. concrete hollow blocks ¾ Roofing shall be of ga. # 26 corrugated G.I. sheets while gutters shall be of ga. # 24 plain G.I. sheets

o Tribal Centers ¾ Geometric design and schemes shall be determined by the Tribal Council of the proponent IP while technical specifications shall adopt those provided under other sub- project types

C. Communal Irrigation Schemes

Category and SP Type Geometrical and Design Specifications • Small Scale Communal Irrigation Schemes

Diversion Works: o Diversion Type for CIS or CIP (for ¾ Run-of-river type adopting ogee or trapezoidal sections and areas of 50 has and above with check gate or intake schemes as deemed appropriate by NIA streams or creeks of sufficient and design engineers. dependable flow adopting NIA specifications) Main Canal, laterals and sub-laterals: ¾ Trapezoidal section with slide slopes (SS) of 1½:1 for most earth canals and 1:1 or 0:1 (rectangular) for lined canals ¾ Earth canals shall have a permissible velocity of not less than 0.30 m/sec. and not more than 1.00 m/sec. ¾ Canal freeboard shall be a minimum of 0.30 m or 40% of

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Category and SP Type Geometrical and Design Specifications designed water depth ¾ Canal top berm width shall be 0.40 m note : canal concrete lining shall not be allowed unless highly justified thru actual measurement of losses due to seepage or other valid reasons.

Structures: ¾ Water level and distribution control devices as needed ¾ Thresher Crossing – one (1) unit for every 500 m in the absence of road crossings along main canals, laterals and sub-laterals ¾ Road and Drainage Crossings as dictated by actual canal alignment and terrain

¾ Earth dam with well compacted embankment and clay core of low permeability materials with 4.00 m crest width and o Small Water Impounding Project minimum freeboard of 2.00 m (SWIP) or Small Farm Reservoir ¾ The reservoir should have sufficient storage capacity with (SFR) – for areas with streams of allowance for incoming flood flow insufficient flow and available natural ¾ Spillway, intake and outlet works and other irrigation facilities basin adopting DA-BSWM shall be of 3,000 psi concrete specifications ¾ All other specifications shall conform to those adopted by DA- BSWM

o Shallow Tube Wells (STW) – for ¾ Adoption of a Type III model: 10 Hp pump engine with 4” groundwater source of 20.00 m or diameter perforated suction pipes and 8” casing less

¾ Spring intake box shall be of 3,000 psi concrete mixed with water proofing compound o Drip or Sprinkler Irrigation (in upland ¾ Polyethylene (PE) pipe main line of 25-50 mm diameter areas for high value crops with provided with 60-100 mesh or 250 – 5 micron filters at the spring sources of sufficient head intake side over irrigable area) ¾ Lateral and sub-lateral PE pipes of 12-20 mm diameter with 1 mm orifice emitters ¾ May be used in combination with transferable sprinklers on poles attached to lateral PE pipes in lieu of orifice emitters

• Post Production Facilities

o Warehouses and Solar Driers ¾ All floors (including land based solar driers) shall be 10 cms. thick of 3,000 psi concrete provided with gravel base and temperature bars of 10 mm diameter spaced at 40 cms. on center both ways ¾ All walls shall be of 10 cms. thk. concrete hollow blocks ¾ Roofing shall be of ga. # 26 corrugated G.I. sheets while gutters shall be of ga. # 24 plain G.I. sheets ¾ Solar drier on stilts (marine based) for seaweeds shall be made from hardwood and bamboo materials on 200 x 200 mm reinforced concrete pile columns ¾ Hardwood timbers taken from sites used for construction works shall have appropriate clearance from DENR

26. Given the fiscal difficulty of the LGUs to generate their equity contribution due to the rather high cost sharing arrangement, implementation of the rural infrastructure component of ARCs within a would be spread over a period of four (4) years for the LGU to generate the required cash equity counterpart on an annual basis. Hence, about half of the target ARCs will start implementing within the second semester of year 1 and the other half needs to be on board by the start of the second year in time for completion within year 5 with some expected to spill over in the first semester of year 6.

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27. Purely public infrastructures like access and social facilities like health stations, day care centers and school buildings will be turned over for operation and maintenance by the LGUs while community infrastructures like irrigation schemes, warehouses and solar driers will be operated and maintained by farmers’ organizations.

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

28. Across the regions in the Philippines, Region IV – B that comprise the island provinces in the southern portion of Luzon, has one of the most varied land forms in the country. The topographical characteristics of the region consist of flat coastal zones, upland interior areas of slightly moderate rolling or undulating plains, hills and mountains. The ARCP II identified provinces of Marinduque and Romblon have the highest poverty incidence in the region. These provinces have 13 ARCs in 10 municipalities that were selected for Project coverage.

29. Region V is popularly known as the Bicol region. It is situated at the southernmost tip of Luzon and is accessible from Metro through the Maharlika highway, the national road network that links major cities and provinces in the island of Luzon. It is one of the poorest regions in the country and is frequently affected by typhoons and natural calamities. Three (3) of the poverty stricken provinces in the region were selected as Project coverage, namely Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Sorsogon with 21 ARCs in 18 municipalities identified for inclusion in the Project.

30. In the center of the Philippine archipelago lies the Western Visayas which comprise Region VI. It is a major sugar producing region whose output and by products are major sources of revenues to the national economy. Only the province of was selected in view of its relative high poverty incidence. There are 11 ARCs in 11 municipalities identified as Project coverage in the province.

31. , which comprise Region VIII, is located in the eastern most border of the country. Its two-island group, Leyte and Samar is connected by the San Juanico Bridge, which is the longest bridge in the Philippines. The region has one of the highest poverty incidence by national statistics. Region VIII is also a typhoon prone area that is adversely affecting the major agricultural and fishing activities and the source of livelihood of the rural households. The four (4) provinces of Leyte, Eastern, Northern and Southern Samar were selected with 40 ARCs in 41 municipalities/cities.

32. Region IX covers the Zamboanga Peninsula, which is in the western part of Mindanao. The region is generally mountainous with rugged topography matched by relatively flat lands with undulating hills. Affected by civil strife and local conflicts, the provinces in the region have one of the highest poverty incidence in Mindanao. The three (3) provinces comprising the region, namely , Zamboanga del Sur and the newly created were all selected as eligible for Project coverage with 37 ARCs in 26 municipalities.

33. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is composed of three (3) provinces in the mainland of central Mindanao and three (3) island provinces composed of several islets. The economy of ARMM is predominantly based on the agricultural and fishery sector with substantial production of marine based crops like seaweeds in the island provinces. The Project will cover 5 ARCs each from the six (6) provinces or a total of 30 ARCs in the region with the advent of OPEC financing.

34. Topography of the specific sites i.e. ARCs, ranges from flat to gently rolling in Negros Occidental and upland interior areas of slightly moderate rolling or undulating plains to hilly terrain in the rest of the ARC areas. A few have coastal zones with ARBs supplementing

12 their income through fishing especially in ARMM. Of the 19 provinces, about six (6) are frequently visited by typhoons and natural calamities adversely affecting agricultural and fishing activities of the rural households. Low lying ARCs which are traversed by major river systems are prone to flooding during the wet season due to denuded watershed areas and lack of natural drainage outlets. This is especially true with one ARC in Marinduque where flooding of the Boac river is aggravated with the presence of mine tailings that was left by the once operational Marinduque Mining Corporation (MARCOPPER). Soil classification in these ARCs ranges from sandy loam to clay loam in most of the agricultural areas.

35. While a few of the provinces have protected areas like forest reserves with rare endemic wildlife species, there is no single ARC that is located within or near these high biodiversity areas. Sites that are of historical, archeological, paleontological or architectural significance are not also common locations of ARCs. ARCP II ARCs are also characterized with unpolluted air quality due to the absence of major industries or absence of natural sources of air pollution such as geothermal emissions.

36. All the ARCs eligible for financing under ARCP II have agricultural-based economy. Predominant crops in the ARCs are coconut, corn, rainfed rice, banana, root crops and fruit trees although the ARCs in Negros Occidental are predominantly planted to sugar cane being the main economy of the province. Mono-cropping is commonly practiced with only a few areas engaged into intercropping and only those within coconut plantations. Productivity is observed to be low and is most often at subsistence level. Causes of these are mainly due to lack of access to production capital, lack of knowledge on agricultural technology, absence of basic support infrastructure and in some cases, productivity is hampered by military conflicts, cultural traditions and ethnic differences in ARCs located in Mindanao. Given these constraints in agricultural productivity, the common denominator of ARCs under ARCP II is the high incidence of poverty compared to the rest of the provinces in the country.

37. The other factor that characterizes the ARCP II sites is the status of land ownership as provided for under CARP. In the candidate ARCs, more than 50% of distributed land are still under collective ownership which is said to have adverse effect to the farmers’ productivity knowing that they don’t have their own title to the land that they till.

38. In almost all provinces, the provincial road serves to link the rural areas to the socio- economic centers, services and facilities within each province. These roads are usually the arterial link of the municipality and barangays to the national highway. The city and municipal roads consist mainly of cemented streets located within the urban centers of the localities and are maintained by the local government units. On the other hand, barangay roads are mostly earth and gravel type that serve as access to the ARCs where the agricultural production areas are and in most cases, these are the roads that are impassable and currently need rehabilitation works. Hence, these ARCs are commonly inaccessible and unconnected to the nearest all weather road leading to urban centers within the locality.

39. While the main islands of the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi in ARMM have internal road networks, the main mode of transportation to and from its components islets is through motorized boats and small “banca” (small wooden seacraft driven manually by paddles). Even then, the internal road networks in the main islands are also in a sad state of deterioration.

40. As these sites are of agriculture-based economy, there are substantial potential areas for irrigation development located in the eligible ARCs. It is estimated that about 18% of the total eligible ARC barangays will require development of its irrigation potential.

41. While majority of the provincial and municipal urban centers have existing potable water supply systems, the rural areas within the ARCs are still deriving their drinking needs from unreliable sources like open dug wells, rivers and creeks. However, many ARCs have

13 available natural springs that need to be developed to provide clean and reliable potable water supply to the AR communities.

42. Other concerns in the Project areas are inaccessibility to social infrastructure such as health and elementary education facilities and unavailability of electricity in the remote barangays of the identified ARCs.

IV. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

A. Scale and Type of Sub-Projects

43. The rural infrastructure requirements in each ARC vary according to the local priorities. About 152 ARCs covering 731 barangays have been initially identified as eligible for assistance under ARCP II. This factor provided an opportunity to generate as much field data as possible for estimating purposes.

44. In coordination with the Provincial Offices of DAR, 56 ARCs covering about 253 barangays have been analyzed as “sample size” to determine the trend of rural infrastructure needs based on the submitted indicative list of rural infrastructure priorities incorporated in their respective ARC Development Plans. These lists were the results of the community consultation undertaken by each DAR PARO in the course of preparing the ARC Development Plans. It should be noted that this number is representing almost forty (40) percent of the initial list of eligible ARCs hence, a good representative of the total number of 152 ARCs.

45. Analysis done on these “sample” sites provided a fairly accurate trend of the rural infrastructure needs under ARCP II as well as estimating factors that can be adopted in extrapolating the requirement for the rest of the target Project areas. The resulting factors are as follows:

Table 2: Trend of Rural Infrastructure Needs in ARCs

Priority Average Factors and Trend Infrastructure Type (from 56 ARCs and 253 Barangays) • Road Rehabilitation 90% estimated to require road rehabilitation works @ ave. of 2 kms/brgy • Road Construction 60% estimated to require road construction works @ ave. of 1.5 kms/brgy • Bridges 10% estimated to require bridge works @ ave. of 30 lm/brgy • Small Scale Irrigation ¾ Rehabilitation 9% estimated to require irrigation rehabilitation works @ ave. of 60 ha/brgy ¾ Construction 18% estimated to have potential irrigable area @ ave. of 85 ha/brgy • Potable Water Supply ¾ Level II PWS 40% estimated to have potential spring or deep well source @ 1 system/brgy ¾ Level I PWS 3% estimated to require only Level I @ ave. of 10 units/brgy • Warehouse 6% estimated to require 1 unit warehouse @ 100 sqm/brgy • Solar Drier 9% estimated to require 1 unit solar drier @ 250 sqm/brgy Other eligible assistance • Flood Protection Works 2% est'd to need crit. small scale fld protect’n works @ ave. of 300 lm/brgy • Multi-Purpose Building 5% estimated to require 1 unit multi-purpose building @ 60 sqm/brgy • School Building 12% estimated to require additional classroom @ ave. of 2 cl/brgy • Brgy. Health Station 11.5% estimated to require 1 unit Barangay Health Station @ 64 sqm/brgy • Day Care Center 11% estimated to require 1 unit Day Care Center @ 60 sqm/site

46. Extrapolating the requirement for the rural infrastructure using the factors above and adjusting it further to fit budgetary allocations, the following are the estimated global requirement for 152 ARCs under ARCP II.

Table 3: Estimated ARCP II RI Global Requirement

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Physical Target Sub-Project Type Description 152 ARCs • Road Rehabilitation Standard FMR 1,295 kms • Road Construction Standard FMR 630 kms • Bridges Single Lane RCDG 2,160 lm • Small Scale Irrigation ¾ Rehabilitation SWIP or Communal Type 3,775 has ¾ Construction SWIP or Communal Type 8,600 has • Potable Water Supply ¾ Level II PWS Spring or Deep Well Dev’t 285 units ¾ Level I PWS Artesian Well or Jetmatic Pump 215 units • Warehouse 100 sq. m. 45 units • Solar Drier (land & marine based) 250 sq. m./ 100 sq. m. 80 units Other eligible assistance • Flood Protection Works Fish Landing Facilities for the islands 4,135 lm • Multi-Purpose Building 60 sq. m. 33 units • School Building Standard (7m x 9m) 278 Cl units • Brgy. Health Station 64 sq. m. 79 units • Day Care Center 60 sq. m. 79 units

B. Screening and Categorization of Sub-Projects

47. It is not possible to categorize each of the proposed sub-projects for financing under ARCP II at this time as these are still subject to community identification and prioritization during the initial stage of Project implementation. Screening and categorization will therefore be based on the established trend of needs per ARC and the result of the initial environmental examination of the five (5) sample FS sites.

48. However, a detailed IEE (attached as Annex 1 to this document) for the core sub- projects of one of the sample sites was prepared to demonstrate the process on how environmental assessment and management will be done as guide for the preparation of the environmental compliance requirement for the rest of the prospective proposals that will be identified by the proponent LGUs in the course of Project implementation. The specific sub- projects in Annex 1 were initially identified by the local community members through the conduct of community consultation as an on-going process executed by the DAR field units in ARCs under the Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD).

49. In line with this, it is recommended that core sub-projects that will require an IEE would be governed by the following criteria: 1. road rehabilitation or construction of more than 2 kilometers length; 2. irrigation schemes of more than 100 hectares; 3. concrete bridges of more than 20 linear meters; 4. flood protection works of more than 50 linear meters; and 5. fish landing facilities of more than 10 linear meters

Only one core sub-project

50. Nevertheless, the screening of the generic ARC sub-project type needs based on the parameters for Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) and guided by the screening questions resulted to the following findings: a. on sub-project siting, only the following parameters were positively identified: - some sub-projects are located in areas frequently visited by typhoons - there are low lying areas that are prone to flooding by adjacent rivers and creeks - there are proposed sub-projects in areas with slopes of almost 50% - some existing roads proposed for rehabilitation and construction are within existing and potential irrigable areas

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- some proposed fish landing facilities may be located in coral reefs the extent of live coral line of which is still to be determined b. in terms of potential environmental impact, majority (estimated to be about 95%) of the community proposed, identified and prioritized sub-projects are considered to have no significant issues under the Philippine EIS System.

51. While the latter may be outside the coverage of the Philippine EIS System (category D), ADB system considers majority of these to be under Category B (core sub-projects), i.e. sub-projects with potentially less degree and/or significance of environmental impacts hence requiring an IEE or EIA if warranted by IEE findings.

52. Under this consideration, the initial categorization of these sub-project types will therefore be according to the following:

Table 4: initial ARCP II Sub-Project Type Categorization Category Sub-Project Types Remarks GOP-DENR ADB • Road Rehabilitation D B - no expected increase in capacity, width and length - some may extend beyond the 2 km limit under the PEISS; • Road Construction D & B B proposed roads within critical slopes will be avoided - no proposed bridge to extend beyond 80 linear meter • Bridges D B limit; else have to be classified as B under the PEISS • Small Scale Irrigation ¾ Rehabilitation D B - irrigable areas are way below the 300 hectare limit ¾ Construction D B - irrigable areas are way below the 300 hectare limit • Potable Water Supply ¾ Level II PWS D C - project will not support level III; no significant impact ¾ Level I PWS D C - project will not support level III; no significant impact - only small warehouses at 100 sqm floor area; no • Warehouse D C significant impact - only drying pavements at 250 sqm floor area or on stilts • Solar Drier D C along beach lines; no significant impact Other eligible assistance • Fish Landing Facilities C C/B - small wooden facilities along beach lines - only critical riverbank protection of 300 linear meters • Flood Protection Works C C/B directly mitigating flood damages - only small buildings at 60 sqm floor area; no significant • Multi-Purpose Building D C impact - only 2-classroom buildings at 162 sqm total floor area; no • School Building D C significant impact - only small buildings at 64 sqm floor area; no significant • Brgy. Health Station D C impact - only small buildings at 60 sqm floor area; no significant • Day Care Center D C impact Note: proposed small fish landing facilities located in coral reefs with live coral lines will be outright rejected unless relocated to appropriate sites.

53. Regardless of PEISS or ADB categorization, an EIAMMP still needs to be developed for each sub-project to ensure that minor impacts are contained and would not lead to serious damage to the environment in the future.

C. Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Implementation Arrangement and Budget Source

54. The potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures with proposed implementing arrangements for these identified interventions would be classified according to the various stages of its development, specific activities and the type of infrastructure. These stages would involve four phases namely i) pre-construction phase, ii) construction phase, iii) operation phase and iv) abandonment phase.

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1. Pre-Construction Phase 55. This phase would involve the social preparation (to include organizational strengthening, planning, identification and prioritization of community needs) of the community for the entry of ARCP II to the project site, conduct of pre-engineering activities covering detailed survey works to determine alignment of roads and canal systems, topographic surveying for small irrigation schemes, hydrographic survey and sounding works for sites of fish landing facilities, jetty and solar drier on stilts, segregation survey of lots for solar drier on land and building structures, preparation of the detailed engineering plans and programs of work, ROW negotiation, recruitment of work force and initial sourcing and procurement of construction materials. These activities will be conducted by the LGU and DAR technical staff, partner line agencies, NGO service providers, community beneficiaries and contractors.

56. The specific activities common to all sub-project types during the pre-construction phase that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement are as follows: Table 5: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures common to all sub-project types Specific Activities and Implementation Mitigating Measures Potential Impacts Arrangement and Budget

• conduct of planning, identification - sub-project sites validation - PPIMO to conduct field and prioritization of all sub-project - hold consultative meetings validation of proposed sub types, route survey for water supply with equal representation of project sites after community pipeline, road and canal alignment, men and women of project identification and topographic survey of irrigable area beneficiaries and affected prioritization for small irrigation schemes, persons on the sub-project - during the Project soundings for site locations of fish components and conceptualization and landing facilities, jetty and solar drier management plan initial design stage and prior on stilts, segregation survey of sites - ensure Field Based to finalization of design, the for land based solar driers and other Investigation (FBI) and Free, MLGU (MPDC, MSWD, ME) building structures, preparation of Prior and Informed Consent and DAR PPIMO shall invite detailed engineering plans and (FPIC) have been secured representatives from all programs of work for all sub-project from the IP Communities sectors of the community for types and ROW negotiation for road encompassing the sub- the conduct of orientation and and canal construction project site generate reactions and comments for integration into - sub-project siting posing adverse impact final Project design to environment and immediate - NCIP shall be involved in surroundings case the area has IP - lack of information and/or low community participation of the community, particularly women, indigenous peoples Budget: activities covered and marginalized sectors under DAR-GOP MOOE and - ROW conflict between and among land MLGU equity counterpart; owners community orientation covered under CDD component

• recruitment of work force for all sub- - give hiring preference to - during recruitment of project types qualified local community construction workers, the residents, particularly MLGU Local Project Office - entry of external workforce those who will be affected (LPO) shall ensure that that may trigger interpersonal conflict - give hiring preference to qualified community qualified Indigenous members are given priority Peoples in sub-project in recruitment of workforce sites located in IP domain by the contractor; this will or occupied by IP be stipulated in the communities Contract documents with - limit entry of external LPO as member of workforce to highly recruitment screening panel specialized work items if - contractor have to conduct not available within briefing to external locality and ensure workforce prior to entry into briefing on proper project area

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conduct and behavior while in the locality Budget: activities covered under contractor’s management cost and MLGU equity counterpart

• initial sourcing and procurement of - procure construction - prior to mobilization, the construction materials for all sub- materials from sources contractor shall project types with valid environmental coordinate with MLGU clearances, i.e. for sand LPO and barangay - possible illegal or unauthorized and gravel, from those officials on legal sources sourcing of construction materials from with DENR-MGB/EMB of construction materials private properties or prohibited areas permits; for timber within the area resources, from those - the contractor may also with valid DENR- apply for quarrying permit FMB/EMB permit from the DENR and LGU

Budget: activities covered under contractor’s management cost

2. Construction Phase

57. This phase would involve the mobilization of construction equipment, construction workers and materials to the specific sub-project site after which the longer period of actual construction work will commence. The construction phase will end up with the demobilization of construction equipment, workers and other construction paraphernalia from the construction site. Majority of these activities will be undertaken by the contractors and community beneficiaries under the close supervision of the LGU and DAR technical staff.

58. The specific activities common to all as well as some sub-project types during construction phase that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement (please refer to Appendix 1 for safeguard provisions in contract) are discussed in the succeeding tables below:

Table 6a: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (All Sub-project Types) Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• mobilization of - avoid night-time mobilization - Contract to stipulate measures equipment, workers and - wet areas of dust sources along for compliance by contractor materials for all sub- vehicle route - the contractor shall spray water project types - cover cargoes with tarpaulin on dusty routes along populated sheets or any equivalent areas with a water truck during - increase in suspended dust - ensure compliance of equipment mobilization particulates along unpaved to manufacturers’ maintenance - contractor to mobilize only roads, obnoxious gas and requirements and to equipment that are compliant to particulate emissions and government emission standards manufacturers’ maintenance increased noise levels - set speed limit to 15 kph when requirements and government along the transport route of passing through populated area emission standards the heavy equipment - provide appropriate warning - Barangay officials to coordinate - increased community signs and lighting with contractor in setting up hazards to vehicular - ensure strict observance of warning signs and monitoring accidents along the traffic rules speed limits and compliance to transport route traffic rules

Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

• construction of - provision of toilet facilities to - contractor to use portable

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bunkhouses, motor pool workers bunkhouses with complete and storage area for all - provision of trash bins for proper sanitary facilities if appropriate sub-project types segregation and disposal of or provide temporary septic biodegradables from non- tanks within field office - increase in Biochemical biodegradables compound Oxygen Demand (BOD) - provide concrete lined ring - trash bins to be brought in by load and debris in the canals with grease traps or contractor during mobilization water body due to concrete catch basins around and trash collection to be improper disposal of fuelling tanks, motor pool and coordinated with barangay sanitary and solid waste maintenance areas officials from the workers’ base - collect used oils in containers - construction of concrete lined camp and sell to licensed recyclers ring canals and grease traps to - contamination by oil, be done by contractor during grease and fuel spills from construction of motor pool heavy equipment and storage areas Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

• demobilization of - avoid night-time demobilization - Contract to stipulate measures equipment, workers and - wet areas of dust sources along for compliance by contractor materials for all sub- vehicle route - the contractor shall spray water project types - cover cargoes with tarpaulin on dusty routes along populated sheets or any equivalent areas with a water truck during - increase in suspended dust - ensure compliance of equipment demobilization particulates along unpaved to manufacturers’ maintenance - contractor to repair broken down roads, obnoxious gas and requirements and to equipment prior to particulate emissions and government emission standards demobilization or transport increased noise levels - set speed limit to 15 kph when unserviceable ones by trailer along the transport route of passing through populated area - Barangay officials to coordinate the heavy equipment - provide appropriate warning with contractor in setting up - increased community signs and lighting warning signs and monitoring hazards of vehicular - ensure strict observance of speed limits and compliance to accidents along the traffic rules traffic rules transport route - conduct clearing and cleaning - contractor to seek clearance - improper disposal of waste operation prior to demobilization from barangay officials prior to causing garbage pile up demobilization and obnoxious odor Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

Table 6b: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads, Bridges and Irrigation Schemes)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• staking, ROW - avoid indiscriminate cutting of - contract to stipulate prohibition acquisition, clearing and vegetation of indiscriminate cutting during grubbing along road and - disclosure of ADB Involuntary clearing and grubbing irrigation canal alignment Resettlement and operations Compensation guidelines, e.g. - MLGU and DAR PPIMO to - damages to standing market value as basis for pricing conduct orientation on crops and other structures of land or crops and other compensation guidelines to - conflict and properties affected community members disagreements on ROW - prepare compensation package during pre-implementation stage compensation for land or ROW acquisition, - MLGU to prepare and settle - localized tree cutting or and/or crop damage compensation prior to actual vegetation clearing and compensation, based on prior ground implementation disturbance to wildlife consultation with project- - contractor to acquire tree cutting affected persons permit from DENR or MLGU - secure Deed of Donation or Quit prior to clearing and grubbing Claim on land/other properties operations - payment of compensation prior - community and contractor to to construction works implement tree planting in areas - prior acquisition of Tree Cutting prone to erosion with MLGU

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Permit support - compliance with conditions in - community and barangay secured permits officials to monitor contractor - implementation of tree planting compliance to conditions in around the facility contract and permits

Budget: orientation covered under CDD component; ROW and crop damages compensation part of MLGU equity counterpart; permit acquisition included under contractor’s bid and contract

• installation of scaffoldings - schedule construction works - contractor to consult with local and shorings for bridge during drier months residents on climate and flooding works, cross drainage - engage and instruct upstream behavior of waterways as basis structures, dams and brgy. residents to send warning for timing of implementation for flood protection works calls (cellphone or other means these work items of communication) during heavy - contractor to coordinate with - exposure of workers to rains for possible headwater barangay officials in engaging hazard of flashfloods in flash floods upstream local residents for construction works along - leave enough channel for warning calls with appropriate rivers and creeks unobstructed river flow compensation arrangement - obstruction of natural flow - follow natural drainage paths - contractor to properly locate of water along rivers and when constructing road drainage scaffolding without obstructing creeks canals and installing culverts the natural flow of waterway - obstruction of public - provide access thru site by - contractor to construct or access during bridge proper scheduling of rehab designate a temporary and safe rehabilitation or cross works or assigning worker to alternate route before drainage construction handle traffic management construction begins and assign a - provide detour or alternate route traffic marshal for as long as traffic is expected - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis

Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

• concreting works on - avoid night-time concreting - contractor to comply with proper roads, drainage and works concrete mixing procedures i.e. irrigation structures - ensure proper concrete mixing water first, cement then procedures i.e. water first before aggregates - increase in suspended dust aggregates and cement - contractor to use only concrete particulates, obnoxious gas - ensure concrete mixers are in mixers of good operating and particulate emissions good operating condition with condition and noise levels from proper and functional mufflers - contractor to construct or concrete mixers within the - provide access thru site by designate a temporary and vicinity of the construction proper scheduling of concreting safe alternate route before site works or assign worker to handle embankment work begins and - obstruction of public traffic management assign a traffic marshal for as access through the road, - provide detour or alternate route long as traffic is expected bridge and structure - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to during concreting works monitor work progress on a daily basis

Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

Table 6c: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads and Bridges)

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Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• grading and excavation - avoid night-time construction - the contractor shall spray water works during road works along grading routes with a rehabilitation and - wet areas of dust sources along water truck construction and bridge grading route - contractor to use only equipment works - ensure compliance of equipment that are compliant to to manufacturers’ maintenance manufacturers’ maintenance - increase in suspended dust requirements and to government requirements and government particulates, obnoxious gas emission standards emission standards and particulate emissions - provide access thru site by - contractor to construct or and increased noise levels proper scheduling of grading and designate a temporary and during grading and excavation works or assign safe alternate route before excavation works worker to handle traffic grading and excavation - obstruction of public management begins and assign a traffic access through roads - provide detour or alternate route marshal for as long as traffic during grading operation - ensure temporary shorings is expected and excavation works along adjacent areas are in - contractor to provide - destabilization of slopes place during excavation works protective shorings along and soil erosion during to prevent erosion and slope adjacent areas where excavation works destabilization excavation is done - obstruction of natural and - designate a Spoils Storage - designated disposal areas redirected flow of water Area of at least 25 meters shall be approved by the during excavation works away from water bodies for MLGU LPO with concurrence along roads, irrigation proper disposal of excavated of the barangay officials canal, cross drainage materials - contractor to design and structures and flood control - direct loading of excavated layout interceptor canals and works materials into hauling trucks silt traps for approval by - increase in total for immediate disposal to MLGU LPO suspended solids, designate spoils storage area - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to browning and turbidity of - provide silt traps and canal monitor work progress on a daily the receiving water body interceptors along waterway basis due to soil erosion and embankments to prevent entry increase in run-off from into water bodies Budget: activities included in construction sites contractor’s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

Table 6d: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Road Works) Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• hauling and embankment - provide access thru site by - contractor to construct or works during road proper scheduling of hauling and designate a temporary and rehabilitation and embankment works or assign safe alternate route before construction worker to handle traffic embankment work begins and management assign a traffic marshal for as - obstruction of public - provide detour or alternate route long as traffic is expected access through roads - avoid night-time construction - the contractor shall spray water during embankment works on dusty routes along populated works - wet areas of dust sources along areas with a water truck during - increase in suspended dust vehicle route during hauling hauling operations particulates along unpaved - cover cargoes with tarpaulin - contractor to use only equipment roads, obnoxious gas and sheets or any equivalent that are compliant to particulate emissions and - ensure compliance of equipment manufacturers’ maintenance noise levels from heavy to manufacturers’ maintenance requirements and government equipment operations within requirements and to government emission standards the vicinity of the emission standards - Barangay officials to coordinate construction and along the - set speed limit to 15 kph when with contractor in setting up transport route of the heavy passing through populated area warning signs and monitoring equipment - provide appropriate warning speed limits and compliance to - increased community signs and lighting traffic rules hazards of vehicular - ensure strict observance of - contractor to comply with proper accidents along transport traffic rules compaction procedures by layer routes - ensure proper compaction of and conduct compaction test for - erosion of unstable embankment works submission to MLGU LPO

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embankment slopes - provide vegetation cover or coco - sub-project design to integrate net slope protection works when bio-engineering practices necessary (vegetation cover) or use of geo- textiles or coco nets for slope protection on expected high embankment sections - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis

Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

Table 6e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Potable Water Supply)

Specific Activities and Potential Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Impacts • Wash water and • Construction should • Contractor with rainwater entering the ensure sealed joints and supervision from MLGU dugwells polluting the a circular cemented engineer. ground water barrier around dugwell to stormwater runoff and washwater run-off entering the dugwell.

Table 6e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Fish Landing Facilities, Jetty and Solar Drier on Stilts)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• establishment of - avoid siting of structures in coral - ARCP II to disapprove proposals foundation for small fish reefs with live coral lines located in coral reefs with live landing facilities, jetty and - drive foundation piles during low coral lines and marine solar drier on stilts tide using drop hammers of sanctuaries appropriate capacity - contractor to present plan of - damage to coral reefs and - prohibit the use of mangrove and work including pile driving disturbance of marine life corals as construction materials equipment to be used and - possible illegal or - coordinate with barangay identification of sources of unauthorized sourcing of officials on legal sources of construction materials for construction materials from construction materials within the approval by MLGU LPO and prohibited areas like area DAR PPIMO mangrove and coral reefs - contractor to strictly comply with prohibitions stipulated in the contract - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis

Budget: cost of activities part of DAR review procedures and contractor’s management cost and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

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3. Operation and Maintenance Phase

59. This phase would involve the actual operation of the completed facilities during its expected economic life. Operation and maintenance would be the main responsibility of the LGUs and community organizations. Likely impacts with mitigating measures would include the following: Table 7a: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures common to all sub-project types Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• conduct of O and M - establishment of O and M organizational and Committee (OMC), ISA and coordination meetings BAWASA by MLGU LPO is a pre- condition to sub-project approval; - lack of participation of - sustain involvement of IPs, during initial subproject indigenous peoples, women and marginalized implementation, these organizations women or other sectors thru conduct of will be trained on O and M including marginalized sectors in regular meetings on O and M the conduct of general assembly to sub-project operation and concerns with O and M its members hence officers will be maintenance committees and responsible to sustain participation - lack of knowledge on organizations e.g. OMC, ISA, of all sectors within the community prohibitions and BAWASA - MLGU to provide technical obligations of community - conduct O and M orientation to assistance to O and M organizations members on the proper community in native dialect to sustain facilities use of completed facilities - NCIP to assist in case the area has IP community

Budget: establishment of O and M units part of LGU equity counterpart; trainings covered under CDD component

Table 7b: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• usage of completed road - Capacity building on O and M systems procedures to be provided by the Project during - obstruction of run-off - regular removal of debris, logs implementation along drainage canals and other materials along - LGU to ensure OMC is causing run-off overflow drainage canals to avoid functional and regularly leading to erosion of the clogging maintains access and road road - regular vegetation control along drainage facilities as part of - increase in agricultural run-off area to ensure free flow LGU commitment under the activity in previously - provide training to ARBs/farmers Sub-Project Agreement (SPA) inaccessible farm areas on proper land preparations and - LGU to coordinate with DAR/DA which may cause agricultural techniques, on training, in consultation with improper land especially in sloping areas the agrarian reform preparations resulting to - set speed limit to 15 kph when organizations within the ARC damage to road passing through populated area - Barangay officials to set up drainage and shoulder - provide appropriate warning warning signs and street lights - increased community signs and lighting along populated areas and hazards to vehicular - ensure strict observance of monitor speed limits and accidents along the traffic rules compliance to traffic rules completed roads Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of O and M unit funds derived from users’ fee with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; trainings on O and M covered under CDD component

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Table 7c: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Irrigation Systems)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• usage of completed - ISA to designate gatekeeper irrigation facilities and watermasters from its members with proper - obstruction of water flow - regular removal of debris, logs compensation; this will be part of due to aggregation of and other materials at diversion the capacity building on O and garbage at the head head works, checks and control M procedures to be provided by works or check and gates to avoid clogging the Project during control gates of irrigation implementation schemes Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of Irrigators’ Service Fees (ISF) derived from ISA members; trainings on O and M covered under CDD component

• land preparation, planting - use only agro-chemicals allowed - LGU Municipal Agriculturist and crop maintenance by Phil Fertilizer and Pesticide (MAO) to assist and coordinate Authority (PFPA) with the DA on IPCM Training to - increased use of agro- - controlled and proper timing of ISA with PFPA as one of chemicals (pesticides & agrochem application based on resource persons fertilizers) due to more IPCM Program - ISA to regulate irrigation water intensive cropping - farmers’ training on proper distribution and ensure the - leaching of soil nutrients selection, dosage and timing of imposition and collection of and changes in soil agro-chem applications water usage fees (ISF) characteristics due to - introduce and advocate the use - soil and water analysis to be excessive application of of organic fertilizer regularly undertaken by the LGU irrigation water or - ISA to regulate use of irrigation MAO with the assistance from improper and excessive water through watermaster and DA and DENR use of agro-chemicals charge water usage fees (ISF), - agro-chemical a deterrent to excessive use of Budget: cost of activities to be taken contamination of surface water out of ISA funds derived from ISF and groundwater - analysis of irrigation water at with support budget from MLGU as downstream of service area part of equity counterpart; MAO prior to exit to natural waterways services and trainings part of MLGU - groundwater analysis within the counterpart service area - periodic analysis of soil to pre- empt potential soil toxicity

• irrigation water supply - LGU MAO to remind and assist distribution ISA to renew NWRB permits annually - renew NWRB clearance/water - reduction of downstream - LGU to initiate tree planting permits annually water supply, especially activities on watershed areas - ensure there is good upper during peak season, with assistance from DENR watershed management thru resulting to disruption or coordination with the DENR or deprivation of other water Budget: tree planting activities and taking initiatives in forest cover users downstream MAO services part of MLGU protection counterpart and responsibility

Table 7d: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Warehouses and Solar Driers)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• drying and warehousing - detailed design to include of harvested crops locational plan of post harvest facilities for approval by DAR - locate drying pavements away

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- increase in suspended dust from populated areas preferably PPIMO particulates within the within production area - fencing of driers near populated vicinity of the drying areas - fence off driers to prevent areas and screening of - proliferation of rats and children from going near drying warehouse openings to be other pests in warehouses areas incorporated on sub-project cost - keep warehouse clean and seal - FO or ISA to develop guidelines all openings with screen to on stack piling of harvested prevent rat entry crops in warehouse and the - provide enough space between conduct and procedures for pest stack piles to have clear view of control measures rat dwellings - conduct regular pest control Budget: design features part of DAR measures review process and included in POW; FO and ISA activities to be financed from ISF with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; MAO services and trainings part of MLGU counterpart

Table 7e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Potable Water Supply)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• potable water supply - LGU to remind and assist distribution BAWASA to renew NWRB permits annually - renew NWRB clearance/water - reduction of downstream - LGU to initiate tree planting permits annually water supply, especially activities on watershed areas - ensure there is good upper during peak season, with assistance from DENR watershed management thru resulting to disruption or coordination with the DENR or deprivation of other water Budget: tree planting activities part of taking initiatives in forest cover users downstream MLGU counterpart and responsibility protection

Table 7f: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Building Facilities)

Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• usage of completed - LGU to ensure OMC is social infrastructure functional and regularly facilities maintains facilities as part of LGU commitment under the - accumulation of garbage - provision of trash bins for proper Sub-Project Agreement (SPA) as a result of constant segregation and disposal of - responsible OMC to provide usage of social biodegradables from non- trash bins and engage a janitor infrastructure facilities biodegradables to keep the areas clean at all - assign janitorial staff from OMC times membership Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of O and M unit funds derived from users’ fee with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart

4. Abandonment Phase

60. No abandonment of the sub-projects is expected since the Operations and Maintenance Phase is considered to sustain the life and utility of the sub-projects, unless natural catastrophic events such as anomalous magnitude of earthquake or flooding destroy the facility beyond use. In this case, the engineering and design of the replacement facilities will integrate and handle the demolition of the damaged structures.

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61. To further ensure sustainability of the completed facilities, the following O and M arrangement is recommended:

Table 8: ARCP II Operation and Maintenance Framework Type of Sub- O and M Responsibility Strategy and Support Mechanism project

5 Access • The Municipal and ¾ ARCP II, DAR and Municipal LGU/LPO to assist in Infrastructure Barangay LGU and organizing, training and operationalization of (roads, bridges, community thru the community O and M Committee fish landing establishment of an O ¾ Municipal LGU to provide regular annual routine facilities, and M Committee (OMC) maintenance fund footpaths) ¾ Maintenance fund to be augmented thru the imposition of road users' fee if feasible ¾ OMC to formulate an annual maintenance program ¾ Municipal LGU to involve community thru commissioning of "pakyaw" groups to undertake maintenance adopting the "length man" system ¾ Periodic maintenance to make use of the "Bayanihan System"

5 Potable Water • The Community thru the ¾ ARCP II, DAR and Municipal LGU/LPO to organize, Supply establishment of a train and operationalize the BAWASA Barangay Waterworks ¾ DILG to assist in organizing the BAWASA and Sanitation ¾ BAWASA to develop systems and procedures for Association (BAWASA) levying water charges to cover maintenance and operating cost ¾ Local Water Districts to provide technical assistance to BAWASA through a MOA with the LGU

5 School • The Municipal LGU thru ¾ Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation Buildings the School Board and and maintenance fund PTCA ¾ Municipal LGU to ensure the availability of teachers at all times ¾ Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DepEd, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility

5 Barangay • The Municipal LGU thru ¾ Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation Health Stations the Municipal Health and maintenance fund Office and Local Health ¾ Municipal LGU to ensure availability of Barangay Board Health Workers or midwives at all times ¾ Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DOH, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility

5 Day Care • The Municipal LGU thru ¾ Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation Centers the Municipal Social and maintenance fund Welfare and ¾ Municipal LGU to ensure availability of social welfare Development Office officer at all times ¾ Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DSWD, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility

5 Post-Harvest • The identified proponent ¾ Community PO to undertake regular maintenance of Facilities community PO facilities through its members ¾ Community PO to develop systems and procedures for collecting users fee if facility is income generating to cover maintenance and operating cost

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5 Tribal Centers • The proponent Tribal ¾ Tribal Council to undertake regular maintenance of Council facilities through its members ¾ NCIP to provide technical assistance to Tribal Council to develop income generating skills

5 Communal • The Farmers thru the ¾ Municipal LGU through a MOA with and under the Farm establishment of technical guidance of NIA, DA or BSWM to organize, Infrastructure Irrigators Service train and operationalize the ISA, FA or SWISA Association (ISA), ¾ Municipal LGU with technical assistance from NIA, Farmers’ Association DA or BSWM to develop O and M manual to include (FA) or Small Water the policies, systems and procedures to be adopted Impounding System by the ISA, FA or SWISA in collecting irrigation Association (SWISA) service fees (ISF) from members for operation and maintenance use

V. INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

62. The implementation of mitigation measures would largely be the responsibility of contractors during actual construction procedures while sub-project siting and design would be by the LGUs. O and M environmental protection measures will be done by the respective O and M committees and organizations with some assistance from the LGU and relevant line agencies. The monitoring of compliance to these measures will be largely under the DAR Project offices at all levels with the full involvement of the LGUs. The DAR and LGUs will set up a mechanism to ensure that monitoring responsibilities are understood and accountabilities are clear. At the DAR management side, a safeguard specialist will be engaged at the central level to provide technical assistance to the DAR regional and provincial designated staff. The project would also ensure that capacity of DAR staff will be enhanced and technology transfer is effected. At the municipal LGU, the MPDC, MSWDO, ME and Municipal Community Officer (MCO) will be designated as the safeguards unit ( with a specific person like MPDC as focal contact person as designated by LGU Mayor) for all types of sub-projects. A unit head will be designated by the LGU Mayor amongst these LGU staff. Review of sub-project sitings and detailed engineering design will be done by DAR provincial, regional and central project offices. Actual ground implementation will be supervised daily by the MLGU LPO, with DAR PPIMO and RPO conducting periodic site visits. ADB supervision missions will be undertaken to review and assess the overall work progress as well as compliance to safeguard policies. The O and M phase will be largely monitored by the MLGU with periodic assistance from DAR and relevant government line and regulatory agencies. 63. Specific monitoring items and parameters, location and frequency, monitoring responsibilities and sources of budget are discussed in the table below. Table 9: Monitoring Items and Parameters Monitoring Items Resources Location and Frequency Responsibilities and Parameters and Budget 1. Pre-Construction monitoring items common to all sub-project types

• Siting of sub- - monitoring to be done after - DAR PPIMO to conduct field - budget for project (proper community identification validation of sub-project sites and validation location and and prioritization of sub- advise MLGU LPO to relocate activities of alignment) projects sites posing adverse PPIMO and environmental impact that could attendance to not be mitigated consultations covered • inclusiveness of - monitoring to be done - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through under MOOE community during the conduct of its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and participation (% of community consultations at community officer to invite marginalized project preparation and pre- representatives from all sectors of

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sector attending) implementation stages community to attend consultations as scheduled and monitor attendance

• resolution of ROW - monitoring to be done - MLGU survey team to conduct - MLGU conflicts (# of during the conduct of route dialogue with affected people and monitoring, complaints from and topographic survey disclose GOP and ADB policy on consultation affected persons) along road, irrigation canal ROW acquisition and and and water supply pipe compensation supervision alignment activity part of its equity • illegal sourcing of - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to ensure that counterpart construction during procurement of contractor has the necessary taken out of materials (use of construction materials by permit to source materials from their own prohibited contractor designated quarry sites and legal budget materials) suppliers

2a. Construction monitoring items common to all sub-project types

• actual sub-project - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to supervise

alignment, ROW during establishment of contractors in staking and

acquisition and batterboards and conduct ensure that sub-project is

crop damages of staking activities located away from

(encroachment of environmentally critical areas,

sub-project into ROW is properly compensated

environmentally and crop damages are

sensitive areas minimized if not totally avoided - MLGU and # of monitoring complaints from and affected persons) supervision

activity part of • nuisance caused its equity by construction - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to require contractor counterpart activities (dust during mobilization and to use water truck in water taken out of particulates, noise demobilzation along spraying of transport routes their own level, obnoxious transport routes especially causing dust along populated budget gases emissions, in highly populated areas areas, inspect vehicle including traffic congestions, and work activities in registration compliance to request for vehicular construction sites using emission tests, A1 status of assistance accidents) heavy equipment and heavy equipment and from power driven tools compliance to traffic rules regulatory equipment agencies • overall construction - daily monitoring through - MLGU LPO to assign Project method observations at Engineer to report daily to (compliance to construction sites . The construction site for supervision contract, permits, sediment and erosion of work methods and progress safety of workers) control best management practices guidance and checklist is provided in appendix 2 of EARP. -

2b. Construction monitoring items common to roads, bridges and irrigation schemes

• soil erosion, - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to inspect destabilization of during excavation works appropriateness of shorings slopes especially after heavy rains before any excavation work - contractor (occurrence of starts mitigating landslides) measures to be included in 2c. Construction monitoring items common to roads and bridges bids as part of POW

• obstruction to - monitoring to be done daily - MLGU LPO to inspect

public access (# of along regular public routes sufficiency of alternative routes complaints while construction work is provided by contractor

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received) on progress

• Water - monitoring of contaminants - MLGU LPO to seek assistance contamination to be done at 1 km interval from DENR and DOH to (presence of within work area and conduct water sampling analysis grease, amount of downstream of rivers and and determine extent of suspended solids, creeks for at least once a contamination if within BOD load) month acceptable levels

3a. O and M monitoring items common to all sub-projects

• inclusiveness of - monitoring to be done - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through community during organizing at project its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and participation in O preparation stage and community officer to invite & M (% of conduct of meetings during representatives from all sectors of membership of operation stage community to attend consultations marginalized as scheduled and monitor - budget for sector to O&M attendance DAR PPIMO committees) monitoring activities part of MOOE and 3b. O and M monitoring items specific to road systems MLGU cost part of equity • proper usage of - monitoring to be done along - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to counterpart roads and overall road canals and drainage conduct joint inspection of all stipulated in compliance of facilities to determine extent facilities and submit monthly the SPA LGU to O and M of obstructions to flow of operational reports to DAR RPO responsibilities run-off water especially under SPA during rainy season (obstruction of canal and drainage facilities) 3c. O and M monitoring items specific to irrigation systems

• use of agro - monitoring of agro chemical - MLGU to seek assistance from chemicals and application to be done DENR and DOH to conduct contamination of during crop maintenance groundwater and surface water water bodies stage on a weekly basis sampling analysis and (dosage, timing and for contaminants to be determine extent of and presence of done at random interval contamination if within contaminants) within farmlands for acceptable levels groundwater and 1km downstream from farmlands budget for of rivers and creeks for at DAR PPIMO least twice a year monitoring activities part • proper usage of - monitoring to be done at - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to of MOOE and facilities and farmlands for actual water conduct joint inspection of all MLGU cost overall compliance distribution, 1km facilities and submit monthly part of equity to O and M downstream of sources for operational reports to DAR RPO counterpart responsibilities of reduction of water supply, stipulated in ISA (irrigation along canals and gates for the SPA water supply obstructions distribution, reduction of water supply downstream, obstruction of canals and drainage facilities)

3d. O and M monitoring items specific to potable water supply systems budget for • proper usage of - monitoring to be done at - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to DAR PPIMO facilities and tapstands for actual water conduct joint inspection of all monitoring overall compliance distribution, 1km facilities and submit monthly activities part to O and M downstream of sources for operational reports to DAR RPO of MOOE and

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responsibilities of reduction of water supply BAWASA (potable water supply distribution, reduction of water supply downstream)

3e. O and M monitoring items specific to building facilities MLGU cost part of equity • proper usage of - monitoring to be done at - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to counterpart facilities and building surroundings for conduct joint inspection of all stipulated in overall compliance accumulation of garbage facilities and submit monthly the SPA of LGU to O and M and warehouses for operational reports to DAR RPO responsibilities proliferation of pests on a under SPA monthly basis (accumulation of garbage, proliferation of pests in storage areas)

64. Capacity Building Requirements. The capacity of the LGU, DAR Regional and Provincial Office staff and the ARC on environmental management is rated low since there historically there was no training on Environmental Impact Assessment, environmental inspection and monitoring including the environmental legal frameworks (both DENR and ADB) with which sub-projects should be complying with. Given this, a number of trainings to the LGU, the local community and the DAR are necessary to meet these needs for following the environmental assessment procedures and guidelines that are specified in this EARP. These training modules are listed as follows: (i) Philippine EIS System, focused on IEE and EMP preparation, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (ii) Philippine Environmental Regulations and ADB Environmental and Social Safeguards, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (iii) Philippine Watershed and Natural Resources Management, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (iv) Requirements and Procedures for Monitoring & Evaluation of Sub-Projects (Training on EARP), with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (v) Understanding the Sub-Project Design & Operations (overview of sub-project descriptions: This is the first part of the IEE)

65. The estimated cost for these trainings would be about PhP8.80 million inclusive of the costs of food and venue, training supplies and materials, resource persons, organizing and facilitation.

66. Each training would involve two (2) representatives from each barangay, two (2) from the MLGU LPO (preferably the Project Engineer and the Environmental Officer), two (2) from DAR (one from the Region and one from the Province). Live-in training is estimated at PhP1,200 per pax per day while live-out training is PhP500 per pax per day.

VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE

67. The ADB’s Public Communication Policy (PCP) of 2005 establishes the disclosure requirements for documents produced or required to be produced by the Bank. Such disclosure requirements must be consistent with the general principles set out in the Policy.

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68. ADB works closely with its borrowers and private sector project sponsors to prepare and implement development activities. In doing so, it will inform borrowers and sponsors of its presumption in favor of disclosure of information about ADB-assisted operations. The documents shall be made publicly available according to the time period specified, after consultation with the respective borrower or private sector sponsor as appropriate, and subject to the section on exceptions to disclosure.

69. Under paragraph 77 of the PCP and in accordance with the requirements under the environment policy, ADB shall make a summary environmental impact assessment for a category A project or summary initial environmental examination for a category B project deemed environmentally sensitive, publicly available at least 120 calendar days i) before ADB's Board of Directors considers the loan, ii) before approval of a category A subproject, or a category B subproject deemed environmentally sensitive, or iii) in relevant cases before approval of a major change in a project's scope. In addition, ADB shall also make the full environmental impact assessment and initial environmental examination available to interested parties on request.

70. In compliance to this, ARCP II through DAR, DENR, LGU and other partner institutions shall make relevant information on the project's environmental issues available to affected people before or during the consultations with project-affected groups and local NGOs, as required under the environment policy.

71. Public consultation and disclosure is a continuing process in project development to ensure that the environmental and social safeguards are constantly in place and mitigating measures are complied for the preservation of a balance ecological system and prevention of further environmental degradation. The public consultation and disclosure that were done under ARCP II are summarized as follows: 72. From 15 August to 10 September 2005: field data gathering and conduct of briefing on the proposed Project, consultations and focus group discussions (FGD) with stakeholders at the field level composed of DAR field units and relevant line agencies, municipal and barangay officials and communities involving ARBs, IPs and farmers’ organizations. Relevant issues and problems were discussed and topics on environmental concerns included an overview of the local environmental status, pressing environmental issues confronting their area of jurisdiction, institutional arrangements for environmental monitoring and LGU capability on the environmental and social safeguards policies. Key informant interviews (KII) with some community members were also done to gather information and validate the local environmental setting of the proposed rural infrastructures as basis for the impact assessment. Brief presentation of municipal development plans, socio-economic profiles and ARC development plans and profiles provided an opportunity to validate the sites based on selection criteria. An exit conference with DAR field units to review findings, deepen understanding and discuss potential project designs was also done allowing the TA Team to further assess the capacity of the DAR Provincial Offices. 73. 21 November 2005: conduct of a tripartite meeting with the Project Steering Committee (PSC) at DAR-FAPsO which was attended by representatives from ADB, DAR management officials and representatives from DAR Bureaus and offices and some members of the PSC from DA, and LBP. 74. Among others, the topics discussed on environmental concerns included the summary of the Safeguard Policies and Considerations, issues on Social Safeguards primarily on Resettlement Framework and the establishment of safeguards and grievance committees in the municipal and barangay levels. The discussion covered both ADB and the Philippine Government’s Environmental Assessment Policies and Environmental Considerations to be implemented in the Project. 75. 24 November 2005: conduct of stakeholders’ workshop as a follow-up from earlier workshop of 01 June 2005 where the selection criteria for Project coverage were discussed and the identification of sample FS sites. Attendance to the workshop included ADB and

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DAR representatives from the Central Office, five (5) DAR regional offices including DAR ARMM and the PAROS of the fifteen (15) provinces. Discussions included topics on the Project providing a safeguard specialist for technical assistance, the need for NCIP to assist and ensure participation of the IPs in the planning process, the Project’s adherence to the ADB and GOP environmental guidelines and the stakeholders’ role in the environmental assessment (EA) cycle. 76. Issues Raised. Common environmental issues raised are on the perennial flooding of low lying areas, after effect of mine tailings in at least two ARCs although the mining firms have already ceased to operate for the last 5-10 years and proposed farm to market roads traversing areas of critical slopes. Flooding of low lying areas can be prevented with the construction of flood dikes and provision of sufficient drainage outlets. However, these are expensive interventions and the Project may only be able to address a few isolated cases given the limited resources. These were then recommended to be sourced out from DPWH and provincial government who are mandated to address such issues. On the after effect of mine tailings, the proponents were advised to wait for recommendations form the DENR- Mines & Geosciences Bureau who has conducted soil sampling and site investigation in the area. For proposed FMRs traversing steep slopes, the proponents were advised to relocate the route to areas of non-critical slopes. Unless feasible mitigating measures are developed, other alternative way of transporting farm products like simple cable systems used in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) may be adopted.

77. The Pre-Appraisal Mission provided an opportunity to conduct additional consultation and information disclosure on the draft ARCP II EARP documents to the various stakeholders in the field.

78. 17-19 Septembe 2007: Consultation meeting with LGU’s, DAR Provincial officials, DENR CENRO’s and an IP community in the Negros Occidental Province. The institutional arrangement for compliance with EARP and environmental management plan requirements were discussed during these meetings and no concerns were raised.

79. 05 September 2007: consultation meeting with the DAR ARMM Secretary, Regional, Provincial and Municipal staff, ARCP I staff, the ARMM Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO) Executive Director and a representative from DENR ARMM. Topics discussed were on the provisions of the EARP for ARCP II covering sub-topics on the roles and responsibilities of Project implementers in complying with GOP and ADB environmental safeguard policies as well as monitoring requirements.

80. Issues Raised.: there is usually no existing environmental safeguard specialist at all levels of the DAR bureaucracy as well as the LGUs. It was recommended that under ARCP II, there is a need to designated one from the existing staff at every level of DAR offices and for each participating LGU and a safeguard specialist will be engaged by the Project to assist and train the designated environmental point persons. While the DARPO designated staff would assist the LGU in complying with all the environmental safeguard requirements, the DAR Regional designated staff in coordination with DENR EMB technical staff and Project safeguard specialist will focus on the capacity building of those at the provincial and municipal levels. This was agreed upon by all concerned and committed to comply with Project requirements.

81. 06 - 07 September 2007: the mission visited the municipalities of Parang, Shariff Kabunsuan and Ganassi, Lanao Sur. This was attended by the municipal officials, DARPO and DARMO officials and DA MAOs. Unlike most of the municipal LGUs, the municipality of Parang has an environmental focal person designated under the MPDO. Although the designated staff was intended for MRDP, the LGU could extend his designation to comply with ARCP II requirements. In addition, the LGU has also an existing municipal ordinance on policies regarding the protected areas under their jurisdiction. Trainings on environmental concerns have also been provided to the MPDO staff.

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82. Discussions during the visit included the participants’ observations and perceptions on possible adverse environmental impacts of their identified priority sub-project on solar driers on stilts for seaweed production in Parang and the perennial flooding of the low lying area of Ganassi caused by the overflowing of the nearby Ganassi river traversing across the mid section of the municipality.

83. Issues Raised. the municipality of Parang was confident that there will be no issues regarding the development of their proposed seaweed solar driers as these will be located outside of their marine protected areas at a distance of about 1 to 2 kilometers away. It was observed however that farm to market roads in their area were easily damaged during rainy season due to inadequate drainage facilities hence were requesting to have these facilities paved. It was then explained that concreting of farm to market roads could not be justified due to minimal traffic volume and an all weather gravel road will suffice as long as proper drainage facilities are provided which is considered as critical features of ARCP II design specifications. The other concern relevant to environmental safeguard is on the availability of the CENRO to provide technical assistance as the office currently covers four (4) municipalities with and is based in . This could be addressed by ensuring that the municipality informs the CENRO in advance for any coordination activities that need to be undertaken during the course of implementation.

84. In the case of the municipality of Ganassi, their main concern is on the flooding of the low lying areas. The municipality has initiated to construct only about 35 linear meters of flood dikes due to funding constraints. Their request is to have this covered and included under ARCP II assistance of which they were informed that although flood protection works are included under the Project menu, it all depends on the scale of work as these are usually expensive to develop. However, given that the estimated cost of completing the flood dikes would be about PhP15 million, the proposal is worth considering as the cost is within the budgetary limits of ARCP II.

85. From the recent consultations, there were no substantial changes on environmental concerns that were observed from those of 2005. Besides, the Project design was basically unaltered hence consultations and information disclosure during the PPTA team field visits are considered valid and usable.

86. The Environmental Impact Assessment and Management and Monitoring Plan (EIAMMP) would involve the active participation of all identified project stakeholders at all levels hence future public consultation and disclosure on environmental concerns need to be conducted to ensure full understanding of the positive and negative consequences of interventions that will be provided by the Project. This would also clearly establish the responsibility centers on the safeguard requirements during the implementation and operation period. Implementing and monitoring arrangements would need to be confirmed taking into account the local conditions. The plan would include capacity building interventions to both the implementing and monitoring units especially the LGUs and the communities themselves. This is in view of the fact that environmental and social safeguards will have to be monitored continuously even after project life.

VII. FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

87. Based on the findings of the IEE, while most of the individual sub-projects are generally classified under Category C under the Philippine EIS System, ARCP II will be classified under Category B under the ADB system hence sub-projects which are further classified as core sub-projects will be required an IEE for submission to DENR and ADB. However, environmental implications for all sub-projects regardless of categorization shall be reviewed and EIMMP shall be prepared to ensure insignificant impacts will not lead to

33 serious damages in the future. No EIA is expected to be required as there is no subproject that is likely to fall under Category A.

88. In conclusion, this IEE is therefore considered as the completed environmental assessment for ARCP II and no follow up EIA will be needed.

ANNEX 1

RECOMMENDED SAFEGUARD PROVISIONS IN EACH SUB-PROJECT CONTRACT

A. General

• The contractor shall ensure that employees strictly adhere to the mitigation measures required to protect and minimize impact to the environment during construction works; • Hiring of workforce by the contractor shall give preference to qualified local community residents and Indigenous Peoples particularly those who will be affected by the construction and limit entry of external workforce to highly specialized work items if not available within locality and ensure briefing on proper conduct and behavior while in the locality; • Construction works shall be limited between 6am to 6pm especially if work items are within the vicinity of residential areas; • The contractor shall ensure that only A1 condition equipment with functional mufflers are used and compliant to emission standards; • The contractor shall avoid indiscriminate cutting of vegetation and limit clearing and grubbing operation within designated and approved ROW; • Remedial actions which cannot be effectively carried out during construction shall be carried out immediately upon completion of each work item; • No construction activity shall commence without prior payment of ROW and crop damages compensation to affected individuals

B. Mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization

• No mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization shall be allowed during night time especially if transport route traverses residential areas; • Transport routes shall be designated and approved by the MLGU and damages to these routes due to negligence of contractor shall be repaired charged to the contractor’s account; • Drivers and heavy equipment operators shall strictly observe traffic rules and regulations along the transport route at all times; • The contractor shall wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route and cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent; • Workers’ camp sites shall be located in designated areas provided by the barangay officials and bunkhouses shall be provided with proper water and sanitation facilities like toilets, septic tanks and trash bins; • Motor pool and equipment maintenance areas shall be located at least 500 meters away from water bodies and the area shall be provided with perimeter canals with grease traps or concrete catch basins; • The contractor shall conduct clearing and cleaning operations and shall seek clearance from the prior to demobilization

C. Construction Materials

• Sources of construction materials shall be from sites with valid environmental clearances, i.e. for sand and gravel, from those with DENR-MGB/EMB permits; for timber resources, from those with valid DENR-FMB/EMB permit; • The contractor shall strictly comply with the conditions in secured permits; 2

• The contractor shall coordinate with barangay officials on exact location of legal sources of construction materials like quarry sites within the area; • Quarry sites and borrow pits shall be left trim and tidy with stable side slopes and drained properly with no stagnant water for mosquito breeding; • No quarrying shall be allowed within 1 kilometer upstream and downstream of bridge and dam sites; • The use of mangrove and corals as construction materials in coastal zones shall be strictly prohibited

D. Excavation and Embankment Works

• The contractor shall provide access thru excavation and embankment sites by proper scheduling of rehab works or providing detour or alternate route agreed with the MLGU and assigning worker to handle traffic management; • The contractor shall ensure that temporary shorings along adjacent areas during excavation works are in place to prevent erosion and slope destabilization; • The contractor shall maintain stable cut and fill slopes at all times and cause the least possible disturbance to areas outside the prescribed limits of the work; • Excavation and embankment works shall leave enough channel for unobstructed river flow; • Designated spoils storage area near sites for proper disposal of excavated materials shall be approved by the MLGU; • Direct loading of excavated materials into hauling trucks for immediate disposal shall be adopted whenever possible; • Careful disposal of debris and excavated materials shall be observed at all times to avoid damages to standing crops and private properties; • The contractor shall provide silt traps and canal interceptors along waterway embankments to prevent entry of excavated materials into water bodies

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ANNEX 2 CORE SUB-PROJECTS of - POBLACION ARC Barangay Rizal, Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte, Region V

I. INTRODUCTION

1. The ARCP II is a follow-on project of the first ARCP of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) which commenced in 1998 and is due for completion by December 2007 with funding support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The project package will advocate a demand driven approach, improved local governance and ownership by key stakeholders underscoring the active participation and direct involvement of the rural household in the development process. It will support the efforts of DAR to address the key constraints in the development of the ARCs and the improvement in the living conditions of the rural households. The long term impact of the Project is to reduce poverty and contribute to improved sustainability of livelihoods of poor and vulnerable communities in selected ARCs and ARC clusters.

2. In order to achieve these impacts, the Project is expected to have the following outcomes: (i) improved access to livelihood assets by the rural poor including the landless farm workers, (ii) development of sustainable livelihoods and long lasting improvements in the well being of poor and marginalized groups in the target communities. These outcomes will be pursued through the design and implementation of an integrated and complementary package of development investments involving (a) community driven development (b) support for social capital formation, (c) agri-enterprise support programs including technical support for developing access to rural finance (d) land survey and titling, (e) rural infrastructure, (f) capacity building programs and (g) mainstreaming project management in a sustainable manner.

3. To achieve these outcomes and based on the assessment of the needs and demands in the ARCs, the Project will support the following outputs: 1) Community Driven Development (CDD), as a key component to build community capacity for self reliant development, support for social capital formation, strengthening of participatory planning processes, mobilization and organization of communities, improved governance and laying of a strong foundation for sustainability for project investments and long term improvements in livelihoods ; 2) Agriculture and Enterprise Development (AED), to facilitate improvements in agriculture and enterprise development, and support promotion of access to rural financial services including community based micro finance development, in order to increase productivity and profitability of income-generating activities; 3) Rural Infrastructure (RI), designed to provide a fillip to improved production and productivity and cropping intensification, through the improved access to markets, cost-effectiveness and access to services; and 4) Project Implementation Management (PIM) to support implementation, mainstreaming, good governance and accountability.

4. On the basis of ARCP II selection criteria which will consider only provinces with at least four (4) ARCs that have not received infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs, about nineteen (19) provinces are eligible for assistance (see Figure 1 below). This is to ensure equitable distribution of support and benefits to the huge number of ARCs awaiting for support from DAR. From these nineteen (19) provinces, a second level of selection criteria was developed to identify the ARCs that would be eligible for ARCP II assistance. This set of criteria included the factors on ARCs that have not availed of infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs and those that demonstrate potential for income generation and a level of readiness for economic activities. This selection resulted to about 152 ARCs

4 covering about 731 barangays spread over 137 municipalities and cities in the 19 provinces. This includes the additional ARCs and provinces of the ARMM with the possible co-financing from OPEC. It is estimated that direct and indirect benefits from the Project will yield positive results in improved quality of life through improved and increased access to services to more than 215,000 rural community members.

Figure 1: Operational Map of ARCP II

5. The rural infrastructure requirement of ARCs eligible for ARCP II financing is varied. It ranges from the basic need for a Level I potable water supply system to access

5 infrastructure inclusive of a single lane connecting bridge as well as support to agricultural production such as small irrigation schemes, warehouse and drying pavements.

6. In this regard, not all types of infrastructure interventions will require an IEE under the Philippine EIS System. The ADB system would however classify majority of these as Category B equivalent to sub-projects with potentially less degree or significance of environmental impacts that would require an IEE or EIA if warranted by IEE findings.

7. Under ARCP II, these types of sub-projects will be further classified as core sub- projects that will be recommended for an IEE preparation in compliance to the environmental requirement of ADB and these will have the following features: - road rehabilitation or construction of more than 2 kilometers length; - irrigation schemes of more than 100 hectares; - concrete bridges of more than 20 linear meters; - flood protection works of more than 50 linear meters; and - fish landing facilities of more than 10 linear meters

8. Not all eligible ARCs under ARCP II will be requiring a set of these core sub-projects hence preparation of an IEE would be dependent on what type and magnitude of infrastructure requirement will be identified and prioritized by the community during the initial Project implementation stage.

9. One of the selected ARCs for ARCP II inclusion is the Rizal-Poblacion ARC in the municipality of Sta. Elena, Province of Camarines Norte (see Figure 2 below). This ARC was likewise selected as one of the five (5) sample sites for a detailed Feasibility Study (FS) on the basis of being linked to the urban centers of southern Luzon and yet, has a high incidence of poverty. The other four (4) selected sample ARCs are located in the Visayas and Mindanao island groups of the country.

10. Of these five (5) sample sites, Rizal-Poblacion ARC has the first three (3) combinations that would qualify as core sub-projects. This was then the basis for selecting this site to demonstrate the process of detailed IEE preparation.

11. The conduct of this Initial Environmental Examinations (IEE) for the proposed core sub-projects of this ARC has the following main purposes:

i) to undertake an evaluation of the nature and significance of potential impacts of the core sub-projects identified and prioritized by the community in an ARC; ii) to formulate the corresponding environmental management measures to prevent or mitigate such impacts; iii) to determine the budgetary estimates required to ensure that mitigating measures are complied and environmental monitoring are executed; iv) to demonstrate the process on how environmental assessment and management will be done as guide for the preparation of the environmental compliance requirement for the rest of the prospective proposals that will be identified by the proponent LGUs in the course of Project implementation; and v) to determine whether further study like EIA is necessary and required under the ADB and GOP environmental policies

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Figure 2: Rizal-Poblacion ARC Location Map, Sta Elena, Camarines Norte

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12. The development of an investment package for the Rizal – Poblacion ARC was done in a highly participatory manner. The specific sub-projects were initially identified by the local community members through the conduct of community consultation as an on-going process executed by the DAR field units in ARCs under the Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD). DAR regional (Region V) and provincial (Camarines Norte) staff members and relevant line agencies like the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) were consulted and joined the team during the field visit to the ARC and in the conduct of focus group discussion (FGD) and field consultations with the target agrarian reform communities and the local government officials of the municipality of Sta. Elena.

13. The core sub-projects covered under this IEE are those that have been identified and prioritized by the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARB) of Rizal-Poblacion ARC. These are composed of proposed construction and rehabilitation of farm to market roads within the ARC traversing along the periphery of the existing communal irrigation schemes which are also proposed for rehabilitation under the Project The construction of this farm to market roads would provide access to the farmer beneficiaries in bringing their harvest to the municipal center of Sta. Elena. In addition, connecting bridges are also proposed for construction as the existing wooden structures are no longer serviceable. The location of these proposed rural infrastructures are shown in Figure 3 in the succeeding page.

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Figure 3: Location Map of Proposed Priority Sub-Projects, Rizal-Poblacion ARC

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II. DESCRIPTION of the PROJECT

14. The identified rural infrastructure priority needs of the ARBs of Rizal-Poblacion ARC are basically in support to their main farming requirements on rice production. The community consultation resulted to the identification of access infrastructure to their agricultural areas as their most pressing need. These areas are currently producing irrigated rice and the farmers have difficulty in transporting their products to the nearest all weather road within the barangay center. The existing irrigation facilities in the two (2) barangays also require rehabilitation works to ensure efficient distribution of irrigation water supply to the service areas especially during dry season.

15. While barangay Poblacion has no requirement on post-harvest facilities and potable water supply needs, barangay Rizal would be requiring a warehouse with solar drier as well as development of a natural spring for its potable water supply.

16. Below is the summary of priority sub-projects proposed by the ARC for financing under ARCP II (see figure 3 above for location):

Table 1: Priority Sub-Projects of Rizal – Poblacion ARC Name of Barangay Physical Category Scope of Work Sub-Project Type Target a. Barangay Poblacion 1. Pk.15 – Tubigan Road 3 kms Rehabilitation farm to market (feeder) road 2. Pk 14 – Pk 15 Concrete Bridge 48 lm Construction replacement of dilapidated spillway 3. Pk.16 – Colong Road 3 kms Rehabilitation farm to market (feeder) road 4. Pk.16 – Colong Concrete Bridge 30 lm Construction replacement of dilapidated bailey bridge 5. Santol CIS 137 has Rehabilitation canal network only b. Barangay Rizal 1. Minasag – Batungal Road 4 kms Construction farm to market (feeder) road 2. Pk. 3 – Pk 4 Concrete Bridge 30 lm Construction replacement of dilapidated foot bridge 3. Rizal – San Lazaro Road 3 kms Rehabilitation farm to market (feeder) road 4. Warehouse and Solar Drier 1 set Construction floor area of 100 and 250 sqm respectively 5. Potable Water Supply Level II 1 unit Construction spring development with tapstands 6. Minasag CIS 63 has Rehabilitation canal network only

17. From Table 1 above, highlighted sub-projects are considered core types as these fall within the criteria for such hence, would be subjected to the environmental assessment process in the succeeding sections.

18. The geometrical and technical specifications of these sub-projects are as follows:

19. Farm to market (feeder) roads will have a 4.00 m. wide carriageway with 1.00 m. shoulder and trapezoidal drainage ditch on both sides; 15 cms. aggregate base course of Item 201 on top of 10 cms. sub-base course of Item 200. Concrete Bridges will be single lane and will have a 4.00 m. wide running deck of 3,000 psi concrete pavement on Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG).

20. Warehouse and solar drier will have 100 and 250 square meters floor area respectively with floors of 10 cms. thick of 3,000 psi concrete provided with gravel base and temperature bars of 10 mm diameter spaced at 40 cms. on center both ways; all building walls will be of 10 cms. thk. concrete hollow blocks and roofing shall be of ga. # 26 corrugated G.I. sheets with gutters made out of ga. # 24 plain G.I. sheets.

21. Level II potable water supply (spring development) will be designed to deliver at least 60 liters per capita per day with communal faucets to serve an average of 4 to 6 households; main pipeline will be a combination of 50 – 100 mm diameter GI, UPVC and Polyethylene (P.E.) pipes of sufficient strength and will be embedded at a minimum of 50 cms. below natural ground; intermediate distribution lines will be of ½” – ¾” diameter of P.E. pipe and all

10 concrete reservoir will be made of 3000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with good quality water proofing compound.

22. Small irrigation distribution canals, laterals and sub-laterals will be trapezoidal section with slide slopes (SS) of 1½:1 for most earth canals and 1:1 or 0:1 (rectangular) for lined canals; earth canals will have a permissible velocity of not less than 0.30 m/sec. and not more than 1.00 m/sec and canal freeboard will be a minimum of 0.30 m or 40% of designed water depth with canal top berm width of 0.40 m; concrete canal lining will only be provided for sections that incur excessive seepage.

23. Although the identified sub-projects can be implemented in a shorter period of time, the capability of the municipal LGU of Sta. Elena (4th class) in providing the required equity counterpart was the basis in phasing the implementation of its rural infrastructure requirement.

24. Given the fiscal difficulty of the LGU to provide the remaining equity in cash, the implementation of the identified sub-projects under the RI component is spread over a period of four (4) years according to the following schedule:

Table 2: RI Implementation Schedule Implementation Schedule (Year) Type of Infrastructure 1 2 3 4 5 6 ƒ Potable Water Supply ƒ Access Infra (Roads and Bridges) ƒ CIS Rehabilitation ƒ Warehouse and Solar Drier

25. The completed sub-projects will be turned over by DAR to the LGU upon completion and after a final inspection had been carried out by the inspectorate team of ARCPII. However, not all types of completed facilities will be operated and maintained by the municipal LGU hence, there is a need to draw up a MOA between the LGU and the organization responsible for the operation and maintenance of some completed facilities. This would be the Barangay Waterworks and Sanitation Association (BAWASA) for the potable water supply, the Irrigators’ Service Association (ISA) for the communal irrigation schemes and Farmers’ Organization (FO) for the warehouse and solar drier. All roads and bridges will be operated and maintained by the municipal LGU.

III. DESCRIPTION of the ENVIRONMENT

A. Physical Resources

26. Rizal - Poblacion ARC is located in the municipality of Sta. Elena, province of Camarines Norte. It is composed of the two (2) barangays of Poblacion and Rizal. The former has an upland – lowland – coastal topographic typology while the latter has upland – lowland topographic typology. The total land area of the ARC is 3,014.68 hectares with about 2,541.02 dedicated to agricultural use, 414.50 of forest land mainly in Rizal and the rest are built-up areas devoted to institutional sites, commercial areas and other public places. The soil type that is common to the whole municipality is predominantly clay loam which is suitable for agricultural crop cultivation.

27. The Rizal-Poblacion ARC falls within the boundary of Type II and Type IV of the Philippine Corona Climate Map. The climate at the eastern and northern part of the province ranges from a very pronounced rainfall during November to January, with no dry season (Type II) to a more or less evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year (Type IV) at the

11 southern end of Sta. Elena. According to the barangay officials, typhoons commonly hit the area.

28. Air quality is unpolluted within the ARC due to the absence of major industries and natural emissions from geothermal resources. The ARC has no lake but is traversed by two (2) rivers with Minasag river draining barangay Rizal and Santol river draining barangay Poblacion. Sources of potable water supply come from the natural springs that abound on the slopes of Mt. Cadig in Barangay Rizal.

B. Ecological Resources

29. The Minasag and Santol rivers get flooded during heavy rainfall period. Both rivers, however, are also used for domestic purposes. These rivers support fisheries for household consumption such as Tilapia, mudfish, catfish and shrimps. There is also a proposed coastal/mangrove Protected Area southwest of Poblacion along Dagohon Bay. The municipality has an active Bantay Dagat support which minimizes mangrove conversion into fishponds.

30. On the mountainside of the ARC, wild boar and deer have been observed. Illegal logging still occurs but not as extensive as 10 years ago, according to the barangay officials. There are no declared protected areas within or near the ARC. However, there are areas of high biodiversity value such as the Pabungbungan Falls and Araneta Falls in Rizal. The latter is located in a privately-owned area.

31. Sta. Elena LGU has institutionalized community-based monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations thru an official agreement with the DENR to appoint Special DENR Officers from among community volunteers. Thus, the watershed of logged-over Mt. Kadig, the main source of potable water supply for the ARC, is now more protected.

C. Economic Development

32. The ARC is traversed by the national highway. The urban centers of the two (2) component barangays of Rizal and Poblacion are therefore readily accessible by all means of transportation. It is an hour drive from the municipality of , the province’s capital town. However, the agricultural areas that are planted to rice within the two (2) barangays are not accessible to regular four (4) wheeled vehicles due to the present conditions of the farm to market (feeder) roads (FMR) and dilapidated connecting bridges. Barangay Rizal needs to rehabilitate its 7.0 kilometer FMR and its 20 linear meter foot bridge while barangay Poblacion has a 6.0 kilometer earth and gravel farm to market road for rehabilitation and a 20 linear meter concrete spillway. These footbridge and spillway need replacement and conversion into a regular bridge.

33. Electricity in the province is provided by the Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative (CANORECO) covering all of the 12 municipalities. However, only 80% of all barangays within the province are energized as of 2003 and most of the barangays without electricity are those located in isolated areas.

34. In the case of Sta. Elena, nine (9) barangays are provided electricity by the Quezon Electric Cooperative (QUEZELCO) because of its proximity to the adjoining province.

35. Of the total number of households in the ARC, about 90% of barangay Poblacion and 80% of barangay Rizal are energized. Others have no access to the service due to the sporadic location of houses making availment expensive as the residents need to buy additional service wires in excess of what CANORECO provides hence, those who could not afford have to resort to using gas lamps or gasoliers for their lighting needs.

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36. Coconut, irrigated rice and rainfed rice are the principal crops produced in Rizal and Poblacion based on 2000 data. Coconut is the main crop in terms of area planted (1,391 hectares), followed by rice (217 hectares, of which 171 hectares is rainfed and 46 hectares is irrigated). In terms of farm size, the average size owned and cultivated by rice farmers ranges from half hectare to 2 hectares. For coconut farmers, the average farm size ranges from 3 to 5 hectares. Terrains with 18% slope are usually used for propagating fruit and forest trees.

37. Both barangays in the ARC have existing irrigation systems implemented by NIA with amortizing ISA. Although the ARC is predominantly planted to coconut, it has a rice producing area. Barangay Poblacion has about 137 hectares of irrigated service area but only 124 hectares is generated during wet season and reduces further to 40 hectares during dry season. This is mainly due to the damaged distribution canals of the system. This Communal Irrigation System (CIS) was funded through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and operated and maintained by the Santol-Ilaya Irrigators’ Association (IA).

38. Barangay Rizal has about 63 hectares of service area operated and maintained by the Minasag Barangay IA whose members are currently paying irrigation service fees of PhP200 per hectare per cropping. However, as in the case of barangay Poblacion, only 46 hectares is irrigated during wet season and 30 hectares during dry season due to dilapidated canal systems. To augment the water supply, the Department of Agriculture constructed a mini dam. Some farmers use water pumps to irrigate their fields. The system sources water from Minasag River, Batungal and Pinaglapaan Creeks.

D. Social and Cultural Resources

39. Sta. Elena has a population of 38,091. The two ARC barangays of Poblacion and Rizal have the highest and fourth highest population, respectively. Barangay Poblacion is the commercial center of Sta. Elena and a large number of households in the ARC (about 514) are in trading or vending, 384 households are engaged in agriculture while 301 are in transportation services (either tricycle and jeepney operators or drivers and conductors).

40. The average family income for the Rizal-Poblacion ARC in 2004 as recorded in the DAR ARC Level of Development Assessment (ALDA) is PhP74,325 per annum compared to only PhP42,103 in 2003. The significant income increase was due to the good harvest and good prices of fruits in 2004 but questions are still raised with regards to the accuracy of the data that relates to how well income information is collected and estimated. Sources of income are from farm, off-farm and non-farm activities.

41. In terms of malnutrition rate, barangay Poblacion is rated low but Rizal has the fifth highest malnutrition rate in the municipality with a rate that is double the municipal and national averages. Common causes of mortality are still births (among the new born), measles among the older children and illnesses caused by water borne diseases such as typhoid and dehydration from diarrhea.

42. Both barangays have health centers where residents can avail free health services and medicines. Among the services being provided by the health workers (i.e. 2 midwives and 20 barangay health workers) are: free medicines, vaccination and immunization services; pre and post natal care services and family planning. The ARC has 19 trained hilots whom most of the pregnant women trusted when it comes to child delivery. Most residents of Poblacion availed the services of the municipal health center, considering that it is located within their barangay.

43. Almost 91% of the HHs have sanitary toilets. Since the commercial center is in barangay Poblacion, waste disposal is provided by the municipal LGU through two (2) dump

13 trucks that collect the waste daily. However, this can only be availed by residents whose houses are within the service area of the municipality i.e. Poblacion and Barangay San Lorenzo. In 2004, the LGU through the assistance of DAR had contracted the services of an NGO-Talingkas Bicol to package a project proposal on community-based solid waste management. If the project will materialize, it will be jointly implemented by the LGU, Talingkas, DAR and Sta. Elena Farmers MPC (the partner cooperative of DAR).

44. The municipality has an existing water system operated and maintained by the municipal LGU but with insufficient supply. It only serves three (3) barangays with more than 600 household beneficiaries. In 2005, an additional of about 500 households in six (6) barangays were provided with Level III connections while the residents of the rest of the remaining barangays derive their potable water supply from developed Level II natural springs and deep well.

45. From the Community Based Management System (CBMS) survey data of 2003, Rizal has 70 households served by Level I, 115 by level II and 184 by level III and about 74 households depend on rivers and creeks for their drinking needs. For barangay Poblacion, 222 households are served by Level I, 652 by Level II and 575 by Level III. The rest of the 184 households derive their potable water supply from rivers and creeks.

IV. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

A. Screening and Categorization of Sub-Projects

46. The screening of the prioritized sub-projects of Rizal - Poblacion ARC based on the parameters for Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) and guided by the screening questions resulted to the following findings:

a. on sub-project siting, only the parameter on the area being frequently visited by typhoon was positively identified as the province of Camarines Norte is within the typhoon belt of the country. While the proposed farm to market road rehabilitation and construction are intended to provide access to farmer irrigators, these are traversing along the periphery of the irrigable areas hence no adverse effect to prime agricultural lands.

b. in terms of potential environmental impact, all of the community proposed, identified and prioritized sub-projects are considered to have no significant issues under the Philippine EIS System.

47. As mentioned earlier, while the latter considers all the proposed sub-projects within Rizal - Poblacion ARC to be outside the coverage of the Philippine EIS System, those that qualified under the established core sub-project criteria will fall under Category B of the ADB system hence will require an Initial Environmental Examination to determine the degree and/or significance of environmental impacts.

48. Nevertheless, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) still needs to be developed for the rest of the remaining sub-projects to ensure that minor impacts are contained and would not lead to serious damage to the environment in the future.

49. Under this consideration, the initial categorization of these sub-project types will therefore be according to the following:

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Table 3: Recommended Categorization of Rizal – Poblacion ARC Priority Sub-Projects Name of Barangay Category Remarks Sub-Project Type GOP-DENR ADB a. Barangay Poblacion no expected increase in width and 1. Pk.15 – Tubigan Road Rehabilitation D B length less than the 80 lm limit of the 2. Pk 14 – Pk 15 Concrete Bridge Construction D B Philippine EIS System no expected increase in width and 3. Pk.16 – Colong Road Rehabilitation D B length less than the 80 lm limit of the 4. Pk.16 – Colong Concrete Bridge Construction D B Philippine EIS System rehab of existing irrigation canal 5. Santol CIS Rehabilitation D B network only b. Barangay Rizal beyond the 2 km threshold under the 1. Minasag – Batungal Road Construction B B Philippine EIS System less than the 80 lm limit of the 2. Pk. 3 – Pk 4 Concrete Bridge Construction D B Philippine EIS System no expected increase in width and 3. Rizal – San Lazaro Road Rehabilitation D B length 100 and 250 sqm floor area 4. Warehouse and Solar Drier Construction D C respectively; no significant impact Small spring box and distribution 5. Potable Water Supply Level II Construction D C pipeline; no significant impact rehab of existing irrigation canal 6. Minasag CIS Rehabilitation D C network only

B. Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Implementation Arrangement

50. From the above categorization, the eight (8) core sub-projects classified under Category B under the ADB system will be subjected to the succeeding environmental assessment although the rest will still be reviewed for environmental implications.

51. The potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures with proposed implementing arrangements for the above core sub-projects would be classified according to the various stages of its development and specific activities. These stages would involve four phases namely i) pre-construction phase, ii) construction phase, iii) operation phase and iv) abandonment phase.

52. Although roads, bridges and irrigation schemes have generally common work items under the four (4) stages, discussions on some specific work methods may need to be attributed to each sub-project type.

1. Pre-Construction Phase

53. This phase would involve the conduct of pre-engineering activities covering detailed route survey to determine the exact alignment of roads and irrigation canal network, topographic survey of the existing irrigable area, longitudinal and cross sectional survey of the bridge site, preparation of the detailed engineering plans and programs of work, ROW negotiation, recruitment of work force and initial sourcing and procurement of construction materials. These activities will be conducted by the engineering staff of Sta. Elena but the recruitment of workforce and initial procurement of construction materials will be by the contractor.

54. For the proposed irrigation scheme rehabilitation, the LGU may enter into an agreement with the NIA to provide technical assistance in all phases and stages of irrigation development.

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55. The specific activities of these core sub-projects that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement are as follows:

Table 4: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (pre-construction phase) Specific Activities and Implementation Mitigating Measures Potential Impacts Arrangement

• conduct of route survey for road and - sub-project sites validation - DAR PPIMO to conduct field irrigation canal alignment, - detailed review of validation of proposed road topographic survey of the existing engineering design alignment and bridge irrigable area, longitudinal and cross - hold consultative meetings location and advise LGU if sectional survey of the proposed with project affected acceptable or not bridge site, preparation of detailed persons on the proposed - MLGU to engage NIA to engineering plans and programs of new road alignment to validate appropriate alignment work and ROW negotiation for road determine actual of existing irrigation canal construction landowners and extent of network and advise relocation ROW requirement if necessary - new road alignment and bridge location - DAR RPO to review detailed posing adverse impact to environment engineering design and and immediate surroundings ensure compliance to - ROW conflict between and among land safeguard policies owners - during the conduct of route survey for road and irrigation canal network alignment, the MLGU survey team shall invite the affected landowners to discuss the proposed sub- projects and generate reactions and comments for integration into final design; compensation policies will also be discussed during this meeting

Budget: activities covered under DAR-GOP MOOE and MLGU equity counterpart; community orientation covered under CDD component

• recruitment of work force for all sub- - give hiring preference - during recruitment of project types (unskilled workers) to construction workers, the qualified local community MLGU Local Project Office - entry of external workforce residents, particularly (LPO) shall ensure that that may trigger interpersonal conflict those who will be affected qualified community - limit entry of external members are given priority workforce to construction in recruitment of workforce foreman, equipment by the contractor; this will operators and leadmen be stipulated in the and ensure briefing on Contract documents with proper conduct and LPO as member of behavior while in the recruitment screening panel locality - contractor have to conduct briefing to external workforce prior to entry into project area

Budget: activities covered under contractor’s management cost and MLGU equity counterpart

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• initial sourcing and procurement of - procure construction - prior to mobilization, the construction materials for all sub- materials from sources contractor shall project types with valid environmental coordinate with MLGU clearances, i.e. for sand PLO and barangay - possible illegal or unauthorized and gravel, from those officials on legal sources sourcing of construction materials from with DENR-MGB/EMB of construction materials private properties or prohibited areas permits; for timber within the area resources, from those - the contractor may also with valid DENR- apply for quarrying permit FMB/EMB permit from the DENR and LGU

Budget: activities covered under contractor’s management cost

2. Construction Phase

56. This phase would involve the mobilization of construction equipment, construction workers and materials to the specific sub-project site after which the longer period of actual construction work will commence. The construction phase will end up with the demobilization of construction equipment, workers and other construction paraphernalia from the construction site. Majority of these activities will be undertaken by the contractors and community beneficiaries under the close supervision of the MLGU and DAR technical staff.

57. The specific activities during construction phase that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement (please refer to appendix 1 for safeguard provisions in contract) are as follows:

Table 5: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (construction phase) Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• mobilization of - avoid night-time mobilization - Contract to stipulate measures equipment, workers and - wet areas of dust sources along for compliance by contractor materials vehicle route - the contractor shall spray water - cover cargoes with tarpaulin on dusty routes along populated - increase in suspended dust sheets or any equivalent areas with a water truck during particulates along unpaved - ensure A1 condition of mobilization roads, obnoxious gas and equipment and compliance to - contractor to mobilize only particulate emissions and emission standards equipment of A1 condition increased noise levels - set speed limit to 15 kph when - Barangay officials to coordinate along the transport route of passing through populated area with contractor in setting up the heavy equipment - provide appropriate warning warning signs and monitoring - increased community signs and lighting speed limits and compliance to hazards to vehicular - ensure strict observance of traffic rules accidents along the traffic rules transport route Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

• construction of - provision of toilet facilities to - contractor to use portable bunkhouses, motor pool workers away from Minasag bunkhouses with complete and storage area river sanitary facilities if appropriate - provision of trash bins for proper or provide temporary septic - increase in Biochemical segregation and disposal of tanks at no less than 500 meters Oxygen Demand (BOD) biodegradables from non- from Minasag river load and debris in biodegradables - trash bins to be brought in by Minasag river due to - provide ring canals with grease contractor during mobilization improper disposal of traps or concrete catch basins and trash collection to be sanitary and solid waste around fuelling tanks, motor pool coordinated with barangay from the workers’ base and maintenance areas officials camp - collect used oils in containers - construction of ring canals and - contamination by oil, and sell to licensed recyclers grease traps to be done by

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grease and fuel spills from contractor during construction of heavy equipment and motor pool storage areas Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

• staking, ROW - avoid indiscriminate cutting of - contract to stipulate prohibition acquisition, clearing and vegetation of indiscriminate cutting during grubbing along road, - disclosure of ADB Involuntary clearing and grubbing canal and bridge Resettlement and operations alignment Compensation guidelines, e.g. - MLGU and DAR PPIMO to market value as basis for pricing conduct orientation on - damages to standing of land or crops and other compensation guidelines to crops and other structures properties affected community members - conflict and - prepare compensation package during pre-implementation stage disagreements on ROW for land or ROW acquisition, - MLGU to prepare and settle compensation and/or crop damage compensation prior to actual - localized tree cutting or compensation, based on prior ground implementation vegetation clearing consultation with project- - contractor to acquire tree cutting affected persons permit from DENR or MLGU - secure Deed of Donation or Quit prior to clearing and grubbing Claim on land/other properties operations - payment of compensation prior - community and contractor to to construction works implement tree planting in areas - prior acquisition of Tree Cutting prone to erosion with MLGU Permit support - compliance with conditions in - community and barangay secured permits officials to monitor contractor - implementation of tree planting compliance to conditions in around the facility contract and permits

Budget: orientation covered under CDD component; ROW and crop damages compensation part of MLGU equity counterpart; permit acquisition included under contractor’s bid and contract

• installation of scaffoldings - leave enough channel for - contractor to properly locate and shorings for bridge unobstructed water flow scaffolding without obstructing and cross drainage - follow natural drainage paths the natural flow of waterway structures when constructing road drainage - contractor to construct or canals and installing culverts designate a temporary and safe - obstruction of natural flow - provide access thru site by alternate route before of water along creeks proper scheduling of construction begins - obstruction of public construction works or provide access during cross detour or alternate route Budget: activities included in drainage construction contractor’s bid and contract

• grading and excavation - avoid night-time construction - the contractor shall spray water works works along grading routes with a - wet areas of dust sources along water truck - increase in suspended dust grading route - contractor to use only equipment particulates, obnoxious gas - ensure A1 condition of of A1 condition and particulate emissions equipment and compliance to - contractor to construct or and increased noise levels emission standards designate a temporary and - obstruction of public - provide access thru site by safe alternate route before access through proper scheduling of grading and grading and excavation construction site excavation works or provide begins - destabilization of slopes detour or alternate route - contractor to provide and soil erosion during - ensure temporary shorings protective shorings along excavation works along adjacent areas are in adjacent areas where - obstruction of natural and place during excavation works excavation is done redirected flow of water to prevent erosion and slope - designated disposal areas during excavation works destabilization shall be approved by the

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along roads and cross - designate a Spoils Storage MLGU LPO with concurrence drainage structures Area near the construction of the barangay officials - increase in total site for proper disposal of - contractor to design and suspended solids, excavated materials layout interceptor canals and browning and turbidity of - direct loading of excavated silt traps for approval by Minasag river due to soil materials into hauling trucks MLGU LPO erosion and loose for immediate disposal excavated materials - provide silt traps and canal Budget: activities included in interceptors along Minasag contractor’s bid and contract river embankments to prevent entry of silt into the river

• hauling and embankment - provide access thru site by - contractor to construct or works proper scheduling of hauling and designate a temporary and embankment works or provide safe alternate route before - obstruction of public detour or alternate route embankment work begins access through roads - avoid night-time construction - the contractor shall spray water during embankment works on dusty routes along populated works - wet areas of dust sources along areas with a water truck during - increase in suspended dust vehicle route during hauling hauling operations particulates along unpaved - cover cargoes with tarpaulin - Barangay officials to coordinate roads, obnoxious gas and sheets or any equivalent with contractor in setting up particulate emissions and - ensure A1 condition of warning signs and monitoring noise levels from heavy equipment and compliance to speed limits and compliance to equipment operations within emission standards traffic rules the vicinity of the - set speed limit to 15 kph when - contractor to comply with proper construction and along the passing through populated area compaction procedures by layer transport route of the heavy - provide appropriate warning and conduct compaction test for equipment signs and lighting submission to MLGU LPO - increased community - ensure strict observance of - sub-project design to integrate hazards of vehicular traffic rules bio-engineering practices accidents along transport - ensure proper compaction of (vegetation cover) or use of geo- routes embankment works textiles or coco nets for slope - erosion of unstable - provide vegetation cover or coco protection on expected high embankment slopes net slope protection works when embankment sections necessary Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

• concreting works on - avoid night-time concreting - contractor o comply with proper bridge, canal and works mixing procedures drainage structures - ensure proper concrete mixing - contractor to use only equipment procedures i.e. water first before of A1 condition - increase in suspended dust aggregates and cement - contractor to construct or particulates, obnoxious gas - ensure A1 condition of mixers designate a temporary and and particulate emissions with proper and functional safe alternate route before and noise levels from mufflers embankment work begins concrete mixers within the - provide access thru site by vicinity of the construction proper scheduling of concreting site works or provide detour or Budget: activities included in - obstruction of public alternate route contractor’s bid and contract access through the road structure during concreting works

• demobilization of - avoid night-time demobilization - contract to stipulate measures equipment, workers and - wet areas of dust sources along for compliance by contractor materials vehicle route - the contractor shall spray water - cover cargoes with tarpaulin on dusty routes along populated - increase in suspended dust sheets or any equivalent areas with a water truck during particulates along unpaved - ensure A1 condition of demobilization roads, obnoxious gas and equipment and compliance to - contractor to repair broken down particulate emissions and emission standards equipment prior to increased noise levels - set speed limit to 15 kph when demobilization or transport along the transport route of passing through populated area unserviceable ones by trailer

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the heavy equipment - provide appropriate warning - Barangay officials to coordinate - increased community signs and lighting with contractor in setting up hazards to vehicular - ensure strict observance of warning signs and monitoring accidents along the traffic rules speed limits and compliance to transport route - conduct clearing and cleaning traffic rules - improper disposal of waste operation prior to demobilization - contractor to seek clearance causing garbage pile up from barangay officials prior to and obnoxious odor demobilization

Budget: activities included in contractor’s bid and contract

3. Operation and Maintenance Phase

58. This phase would involve the actual operation of the completed road, bridge and irrigation facilities during its expected economic life. Operation and maintenance would be the main responsibility of the municipal LGU for the roads and bridges while the completed irrigation systems will be operated and maintained by the respective Irrigators’ Service Associations (ISAs). Likely impacts with mitigating measures and implementing arrangement would include the following:

Table 6: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (operation and maintenance phase) Specific Activities and Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement Potential Impacts

• conduct of O and M - sustain involvement of other - establishment of O and M organizational and community members and Committee (OMC) for roads and coordination meetings marginalized sectors thru conduct bridges and ISA for irrigation of regular meetings on O and M systems by MLGU LPO is a pre- - lack of participation of concerns with O and M condition to sub-project approval; marginalized sectors and committees and organizations i.e during initial subproject other community members OMCs and ISAs implementation, these in sub-project operation - conduct O and M orientation to organizations will be trained on O and maintenance community in native dialect and M including the conduct of - lack of knowledge on general assembly to its members prohibitions and hence officers will be responsible obligations of community to sustain participation of all members and sectors within the community marginalized sectors on - MLGU to provide technical the proper use of assistance to O and M completed facilities organizations to sustain facilities - NIA to provide technical assistance to capacitate ISAs

Budget: establishment of O and M units part of LGU equity counterpart; trainings covered under CDD component

• usage of completed - regular removal of debris, logs - ISA to designate gatekeeper irrigation facilities, road and other materials along and watermasters from its systems and bridge drainage canals, damsites and members with proper bridge abutments to avoid compensation; this will be part of - obstruction of water flow clogging the capacity building on O and due to aggregation of - regular vegetation control along M procedures to be provided by garbage at the head run-off area to ensure free flow the Project during works or check and - provide training to ARBs/farmers implementation control gates of irrigation on proper land preparations and - LGU to ensure OMC is schemes and flood debris agricultural techniques, functional and regularly at damsites and bridge especially in sloping areas maintains access and road abutments - set speed limit to 15 kph when drainage facilities as part of - obstruction of run-off passing through populated area LGU commitment under the along drainage canals Sub-Project Agreement (SPA)

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causing run-off overflow - provide appropriate warning - LGU to coordinate with DAR/DA leading to erosion of the signs and lighting on training, in consultation with road - ensure strict observance of the agrarian reform - increase in agricultural traffic rules organizations within the ARC activity in previously - Barangay officials to set up inaccessible farm areas warning signs and street lights which may cause along populated areas and improper land monitor speed limits and preparations resulting to compliance to traffic rules damage to road drainage and shoulder Budget: cost of activities to be taken - increased community out of O and M unit funds derived hazards to vehicular from users’ fee with support budget accidents along the from MLGU as part of equity completed roads and counterpart; trainings on O and M bridges covered under CDD component

• land preparation, planting - use only agro-chemicals allowed - LGU Municipal Agriculturist and crop maintenance by Phil Fertilizer and Pesticide (MAO) to assist and coordinate Authority (PFPA) with the DA on IPCM Training to - increased use of agro- - controlled and proper timing of ISA with PFPA as one of chemicals (pesticides & agrochem application based on resource persons fertilizers) due to more IPCM Program - ISA to regulate irrigation water intensive cropping - farmers’ training on proper distribution and ensure the - leaching of soil nutrients selection, dosage and timing of imposition and collection of and changes in soil agro-chem applications water usage fees (ISF) characteristics due to - introduce and advocate the use - soil and water analysis to be excessive application of of organic fertilizer regularly undertaken by the LGU irrigation water or - ISA to regulate use of irrigation MAO with the assistance from improper and excessive water through watermaster and DA and DENR use of agro-chemicals charge water usage fees (ISF), - agro-chemical a deterrent to excessive use of Budget: cost of activities to be taken contamination of surface water out of ISA funds derived from ISF and groundwater - analysis of irrigation water at with support budget from MLGU as downstream of service area part of equity counterpart; MAO prior to exit to natural waterways services and trainings part of MLGU - groundwater analysis within the counterpart service area - periodic analysis of soil to pre- empt potential soil toxicity

• drying and warehousing - locate drying pavements away - detailed design to include of harvested crops from populated areas preferably locational plan of post harvest within production area facilities for approval by DAR - increase in suspended dust - fence off driers to prevent PPIMO particulates within the children from going near drying - fencing of driers near populated vicinity of the drying areas areas areas and screening of - proliferation of rats and - keep warehouse clean and seal warehouse openings to be other pests in warehouses all openings with screen to incorporated on sub-project cost prevent rat entry - FO or ISA to develop guidelines - provide enough space between on stack piling of harvested stack piles to have clear view of crops in warehouse and the rat dwellings conduct and procedures for pest - conduct regular pest control control measures measures Budget: design features part of DAR review process and included in POW; FO and ISA activities to be financed from ISF with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; MAO services and trainings part of MLGU counterpart

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• irrigation water supply - renew NWRB clearance/water - LGU MAO to remind and assist distribution permits annually ISA to renew NWRB permits - ensure there is good upper annually watershed management thru - LGU to initiate tree planting - reduction of downstream coordination with the DENR or activities on watershed areas water supply, especially taking initiatives in forest cover with assistance from DENR during peak season, protection resulting to disruption or Budget: tree planting activities and deprivation of other water MAO services part of MLGU users downstream counterpart and responsibility

4. Abandonment Phase

59. No abandonment of the sub-projects is expected since the MLGU is expected to sustain the life and utility of the completed roads and bridges, unless natural catastrophic event such as flooding destroys the facility beyond use. In this case, the engineering design of the rehabilitation works will integrate and handle the demolition of the damaged structures.

60. To further ensure sustainability of the completed roads and bridges, the following O and M arrangement is recommended: • The Municipal and Barangay LGU to establish and train the roads and bridges O and M Committee (OMC) • ARCP II, DAR and Municipal LGU/LPO to assist in organizing, training and operationalization of community O and M Committee • Municipal LGU to provide regular annual routine maintenance fund • Maintenance fund to be augmented thru the imposition of road users' fee if feasible • OMC to formulate an annual maintenance program • Municipal LGU to involve community thru commissioning of "pakyaw" groups to undertake maintenance adopting the "length man" system • Periodic maintenance to make use of the "Bayanihan System"

61. In the case of the completed irrigation systems, the responsibility of O and M shall be vested on the farmers thru the establishment of Irrigators’ Service Association (ISAs). This shall be according to the following arrangement; • The Municipal LGU through a MOA with and under the technical guidance of NIA shall organize, train and operationalize the ISA • The Municipal LGU with technical assistance from NIA shall develop an O and M manual to include the policies, systems and procedures to be adopted by the ISA in collecting Irrigation Service Fees (ISF) from members for operation and maintenance use

V. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN AND INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

A. Environmental Impact Assessment and Management and Monitoring Plan

62. The Environmental Impact Assessment and Management and Monitoring Plan (EIAMMP) would involve the active participation of all identified project stakeholders at all levels hence future public consultation and disclosure on environmental concerns need to be conducted in the area to ensure full understanding of the positive and negative

22 consequences of interventions that will be provided by the Project. This would also clearly establish the responsibility centers on the safeguard requirements during the implementation and operation period. Implementing and monitoring arrangements would need to be confirmed taking into account the local conditions. The plan would include capacity building interventions to both the implementing and monitoring units especially the LGUs and the communities themselves. This is in view of the fact that environmental and social safeguards will have to be monitored continuously even after project life.

63. The specific monitoring items and parameters, location and frequency, monitoring responsibilities and sources of budget for the environmental monitoring activities are discussed in the table below. Table 7: Environmental Monitoring Items and Parameters Monitoring Items Resources Location and Frequency Responsibilities and Parameters and Budget 1. Pre-Construction

• Siting of sub- - monitoring to be done after - DAR PPIMO to conduct field - budget for project (proper community identification validation of sub-project sites and validation location and and prioritization of sub- advise MLGU LPO to relocate activities of alignment) projects sites posing adverse PPIMO and environmental impact that could attendance to not be mitigated consultations covered • inclusiveness of - monitoring to be done - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through under MOOE community during the conduct of its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and participation (% community consultations at community officer to invite of marginalized project preparation and pre- representatives from all sectors of sector attending) implementation stages community to attend consultations as scheduled and monitor attendance

• resolution of - monitoring to be done - MLGU survey team to conduct - MLGU ROW conflicts (# during the conduct of route dialogue with affected people and monitoring, of complaints and topographic survey disclose GOP and ADB policy on consultation from affected along road, irrigation canal ROW acquisition and and persons) alignment compensation supervision activity part of its equity

counterpart - monitoring to be done • illegal sourcing of - MLGU LPO to ensure that taken out of during procurement of construction contractor has the necessary their own construction materials by materials (use of permit to source materials from budget contractor prohibited designated quarry sites and legal materials) suppliers

2. Construction

• actual sub-project - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to supervise - MLGU alignment, ROW during establishment of contractors in staking and monitoring acquisition and batterboards and conduct ensure that sub-project is and crop damages of staking activities located away from supervision (encroachment environmentally critical areas, activity part of of sub-project ROW is properly compensated its equity into and crop damages are counterpart environmentally minimized if not totally avoided taken out of sensitive areas their own and # of budget complaints from including affected persons) request for assistance • nuisance caused - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to require contractor from by construction during mobilization and to use water truck in water regulatory activities (dust demobilzation along spraying of transport routes agencies

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particulates, transport routes especially causing dust along populated noise level, in highly populated areas areas, inspect vehicle - contractor obnoxious gases and work activities in registration compliance to mitigating emissions, traffic construction sites using emission tests, A1 status of measures to congestions, heavy equipment and heavy equipment and be included in vehicular power driven tools compliance to traffic rules bids as part of accidents) equipment POW

• soil erosion, - monitoring to be done - MLGU LPO to inspect destabilization of during excavation works appropriateness of shorings slopes especially after heavy rains before any excavation work (occurrence of starts landslides)

• obstruction to - monitoring to be done daily - MLGU LPO to inspect public access (# along regular public routes sufficiency of alternative routes of complaints while construction work is provided by contractor received) on progress

• Water - monitoring of contaminants - MLGU LPO to seek assistance contamination to be done at 1 km interval from DENR and DOH to (presence of within work area and conduct water sampling analysis grease, amount downstream of rivers and and determine extent of of suspended creeks for at least once a contamination if within solids, BOD load) month acceptable levels

• overall - daily monitoring through - MLGU LPO to assign Project construction observations at Engineer to report daily to method construction sites construction site for supervision (compliance to of work methods and progress contract, permits, safety of workers)

3. O and M

• inclusiveness of - monitoring to be done - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through community during organizing at project its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and participation in O preparation stage and community officer to invite & M (% of conduct of meetings during representatives from all sectors of membership of operation stage community to attend consultations marginalized as scheduled and monitor sector to O&M attendance committees)

• use of agro - monitoring of agro chemical - MLGU to seek assistance from chemicals and application to be done DENR and DOH to conduct - budget for contamination of during crop maintenance groundwater and surface water DAR PPIMO water bodies stage on a weekly basis sampling analysis and monitoring (dosage, timing and for contaminants to be determine extent of activities part and presence of done at random interval contamination if within of MOOE and contaminants) within farmlands for acceptable levels MLGU cost groundwater and 1 km part of equity downstream from farmlands counterpart of rivers and creeks for at stipulated in least twice a year the SPA

• proper usage of - monitoring to be done at - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to facilities and farmlands and tapstands for conduct joint inspection of all overall actual water distribution, 1 facilities and submit monthly compliance to O km downstream of sources operational reports to DAR RPO and M for reduction of water responsibilities supply, along canals and under SPA gates for obstructions and (irrigation and warehouses for proliferation potable water of pests on a monthly basis supply distribution,

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reduction of water supply, accumulation of garbage, obstruction of canal and drainage facilities, proliferation of pests in storage areas)

B. Institutional Arrangement

64. The implementation of mitigation measures would largely be the responsibility of contractors during actual road construction while sub-project siting and design by the municipal LGU of Sta. Elena. O and M environmental protection measures will be done by the O and M committee established by the municipal LGU. The monitoring of compliance to these measures will be largely under the DAR Project offices at all levels i.e. DAR Region V, DARPO Camarines Norte and DARMO Sta. Elena with the full involvement of the LGU.

65. The DAR and LGU will set up a mechanism to ensure that monitoring responsibilities are understood and accountabilities are clear. At the DAR management side, a safeguard specialist will be engaged at the central level to provide technical assistance to the DAR regional and provincial designated staff. The TA would also ensure that capacity of DAR staff will be enhanced and technology transfer is effected.

66. At the municipal LGU, the MPDC, MSWDO, ME and community officer will be designated as safeguard unit for all types of sub-projects. Review of sub-project sitings and detailed engineering design will be done by DAR provincial, regional and central project offices. Actual ground implementation will be supervised daily by the MLGU LPO, with DAR PPIMO and RPO conducting periodic site visits.

67. ADB supervision missions will be undertaken to review and assess the overall work progress as well as compliance to safeguard policies. The O and M phase will be largely monitored by the MLGU with periodic assistance from DAR and relevant government line and regulatory agencies.

C. Capacity Building Requirements and Budgetary Estimates

68. In general, the capacity of the LGU and the ARC on environmental management is rated low with almost no training at all on Environmental Impact Assessment, environmental monitoring and audits and no background on the environmental legal framework with which sub-projects should be complying with.

69. In addition, almost all LGUs have no specific position within the organization that is responsible for all environmental concerns within their area of jurisdiction hence the need for the Municipal Chief Executive of Sta. Elena to designate an environmental monitoring officer from its existing staff.

70. Given this and with the designation of an environmental monitoring officer, a list of trainings to the LGU, the local community and the DAR are proposed to meet these needs for an efficient integration of environmental issues and interventions throughout the sub- project life cycle. These are identified as follows:

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1. Philippine EIS System, focused on IEE and EMP preparation, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications 2. Philippine Environmental Regulations and ADB Environmental and Social Safeguards, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications 3. Philippine Watershed and Natural Resources Management, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications 4. Requirements and Procedures for Monitoring & Evaluation of Sub-Projects, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications 5. Understanding the Sub-Project Design & Operations (overview of sub-project descriptions: This is the first part of the IEE)

71. These training modules will be applicable to every province and municipality covered by ARCP II with the full participation of selected representatives from the community within the ARC. In the case of the Municipality of Sta. Elena and the Province of Camarines Norte, the estimated cost for these trainings would be about PhP360,400 inclusive of the costs of food and venue, training supplies and materials, resource persons, organizing and facilitation. This would cover the four (4) eligible ARCs with 13 barangays in four (4) municipalities of Camarines Norte.

72. It should be noted that the conduct of training shall be done on a province wide basis for cost effectiveness hence the municipality of Sta. Elena will be joined by the rest of the participants from the other ARCP II eligible municipalities within the province.

73. The training would involve two (2) representatives from each barangay, two (2) from the MLGU LPO (preferably the Project Engineer and the Environmental Officer) and two (2) from DAR (one from the Region and one from the Province). Live-in training is estimated at PhP1,200 per participant per day while live-out training is PhP500 per participant per day.

74. At the average, each ARC would need about PhP90,100 to cover the cost of a complete module on environmental capacity building interventions.

VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFROMATION DISCLOSURE

A. ADB Public Communication Policy

75. The ADB’s Public Communication Policy (PCP) of 2005 establishes the disclosure requirements for documents produced or required to be produced by the Bank. Such disclosure requirements must be consistent with the general principles set out in the Policy.

76. ADB works closely with its borrowers and private sector project sponsors to prepare and implement development activities. In doing so, it will inform borrowers and sponsors of its presumption in favor of disclosure of information about ADB-assisted operations. The documents shall be made publicly available according to the time period specified, after consultation with the respective borrower or private sector sponsor as appropriate, and subject to the section on exceptions to disclosure.

77. Under paragraph 77 of the PCP and in accordance with the requirements under the environment policy, ADB shall make a summary environmental impact assessment for a category A project or summary initial environmental examination for a category B project deemed environmentally sensitive, publicly available at least 120 calendar days i) before ADB's Board of Directors considers the loan, ii) before approval of a category A subproject, or a category B subproject deemed environmentally sensitive, or iii) in relevant cases before approval of a major change in a project's scope. In addition, ADB shall also make the full environmental impact assessment and initial environmental examination available to interested parties on request.

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78. In compliance to this, ARCP II through DAR, DENR, LGU and other partner institutions shall make relevant information on the project's environmental issues available to affected people before or during the consultations with project-affected groups and local NGOs, as required under the environment policy.

B. Conduct of Public Consultation and Information Disclosure

79. Field survey for the Environmental Assessment of Rizal – Poblacion ARC and the other four (4) sample sites for the FS was undertaken by the Technical Assistance Team (TAT) from August 23 to September 10, 2005. The Environmental Assessment Specialist and the Rural Infrastructure Specialist jointly conducted consultative meetings with the municipal LGUs on the following topics: a) an overview of the municipal/city environmental status, b) pressing environmental issues confronting their area of jurisdiction, c) proposed rural infrastructures to address the issues, d) potential positive and negative impacts, e) institutional arrangements for environmental monitoring, and f) capability of the LGU to address the environmental and social safeguard issues affecting the LGUs.

80. At the barangay level, focused group discussions (FGD) were undertaken with the barangay officials, followed by a survey of the barangays composing the ARCs namely Barangays Poblacion and Rizal. The EA Specialist interviewed some community members to gather information and validated the local environmental setting of the proposed rural infrastructures as a basis for the impact assessment of the proposals.

81. The Fact Finding Mission had the chance to re-visit the sites on April 23 – 24, 2007. The conduct of the second round of consultation with the communities of both barangays yielded no substantial changes from what have been discussed two (2) years ago. Priorities were reconfirmed and a quick visit to the specific sites showed no variations hence findings from the original consultations are considered relevant to date.

82. Public consultation and disclosure is a continuing process in project development to ensure that the environmental and social safeguards are constantly in place and mitigating measures are complied for the preservation of a balance ecological system and prevention of further environmental degradation.

83. The actual public consultation and disclosure that was done for Rizal – Poblacion ARC on August 28 and 29, 2005 involved activities on field data gathering and conduct of briefing on the proposed Project. Consultations and focus group discussions (FGD) with stakeholders at the field level was composed of DAR regional and provincial officials and relevant line agencies, officials of the municipality of Sta. Elena and barangays Rizal and Poblacion and communities involving ARBs and farmers’ organizations of Rizal – Poblacion ARC.

84. Aside from the topics that were mentioned above, issues and problems were also discussed relevant to the GOP and ADB social safeguards policies. Key informant interviews (KII) with some community members were also done to gather information and validate the local environmental setting of the proposed rural infrastructures as basis for the impact assessment.

85. Brief presentation of municipal development plans, socio-economic profiles and ARC development plans and profiles provided an opportunity to validate the sites based on selection criteria. An exit conference with DAR field units to review findings, deepen understanding and discuss potential project designs was also done allowing the TA Team to further assess the capacity of the DAR Provincial Offices.

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86. The DAR Regional Director of Region V and the PARO of Camarines Norte were also invited during the conduct of stakeholders’ workshop on 24 November 2005 as a follow- up from earlier workshop of 01 June 2005 where the selection criteria for Project coverage were discussed and the identification of sample FS sites done. Discussions included topics on the Project providing a safeguard specialist for technical assistance, the need for NCIP to assist and ensure participation of the IPs in the planning process, the Project’s adherence to the ADB and GOP environmental guidelines and the stakeholders’ role in the environmental assessment (EA) cycle.

87. During the conduct of these consultations, there were no significant issues raised by the ARC community nor the officials from the municipality of Sta. Elena and the DAR field offices. Even with the cost sharing arrangement originally declared to be 40-60 being a 4th class municipality, the LGU was still interested to participate in ARCP II. On the part of the DAR provincial office, they were happy to learn that they are included under the Project as this will be the first FAP that will be implemented in their ARCs if ARCP II will push through.

VII. FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

88. The results of the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of the above core sub- projects proposed in Rizal - Poblacion ARC shows that environmental implications are less significant and could easily be mitigated. However, the environmental implications of the rest of the ARC proposed sub-projects shall still be reviewed and EIMMP shall also be prepared for each to ensure insignificant impacts will not lead to serious damages in the future.

89. In conclusion, this IEE is therefore considered as the completed environmental assessment for Rizal - Poblacion ARC and no follow up EIA will be needed.

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ANNEX 3

RECOMMENDED SAFEGUARD PROVISIONS IN EACH SUB-PROJECT CONTRACT

A. General

• The contractor shall ensure that employees strictly adhere to the mitigation measures required to protect and minimize impact to the environment during construction works; • Hiring of workforce by the contractor shall give preference to qualified local community residents and Indigenous Peoples particularly those who will be affected by the construction and limit entry of external workforce to highly specialized work items if not available within locality and ensure briefing on proper conduct and behavior while in the locality; • Construction works shall be limited between 6am to 6pm especially if work items are within the vicinity of residential areas; • The contractor shall ensure that only A1 condition equipment with functional mufflers are used and compliant to emission standards; • The contractor shall avoid indiscriminate cutting of vegetation and limit clearing and grubbing operation within designated and approved ROW; • Remedial actions which cannot be effectively carried out during construction shall be carried out immediately upon completion of each work item; • No construction activity shall commence without prior payment of ROW and crop damages compensation to affected individuals

B. Mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization

• No mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization shall be allowed during night time especially if transport route traverses residential areas; • Transport routes shall be designated and approved by the MLGU and damages to these routes due to negligence of contractor shall be repaired charged to the contractor’s account; • Drivers and heavy equipment operators shall strictly observe traffic rules and regulations along the transport route at all times; • The contractor shall wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route and cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent; • Workers’ camp sites shall be located in designated areas provided by the barangay officials and bunkhouses shall be provided with proper water and sanitation facilities like toilets, septic tanks and trash bins; • Motor pool and equipment maintenance areas shall be located at least 500 meters away from water bodies and the area shall be provided with perimeter canals with grease traps or concrete catch basins; • The contractor shall conduct clearing and cleaning operations and shall seek clearance from the barangay captain prior to demobilization

C. Construction Materials

• Sources of construction materials shall be from sites with valid environmental clearances, i.e. for sand and gravel, from those with DENR-MGB/EMB permits; for timber resources, from those with valid DENR-FMB/EMB permit;

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• The contractor shall strictly comply with the conditions in secured permits; • The contractor shall coordinate with barangay officials on exact location of legal sources of construction materials like quarry sites within the area; • Quarry sites and borrow pits shall be left trim and tidy with stable side slopes and drained properly with no stagnant water for mosquito breeding; • No quarrying shall be allowed within 1 kilometer upstream and downstream of bridge and dam sites; • The use of mangrove and corals as construction materials in coastal zones shall be strictly prohibited

D. Excavation and Embankment Works

• The contractor shall provide access thru excavation and embankment sites by proper scheduling of rehab works or providing detour or alternate route agreed with the MLGU and assigning worker to handle traffic management; • The contractor shall ensure that temporary shorings along adjacent areas during excavation works are in place to prevent erosion and slope destabilization; • The contractor shall maintain stable cut and fill slopes at all times and cause the least possible disturbance to areas outside the prescribed limits of the work; • Excavation and embankment works shall leave enough channel for unobstructed river flow; • Designated spoils storage area near sites for proper disposal of excavated materials shall be approved by the MLGU; • Direct loading of excavated materials into hauling trucks for immediate disposal shall be adopted whenever possible; • Careful disposal of debris and excavated materials shall be observed at all times to avoid damages to standing crops and private properties; • The contractor shall provide silt traps and canal interceptors along waterway embankments to prevent entry of excavated materials into water bodies